THE NATIONAL Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) is calling for the construction of truck-only lanes, and is asking the federal government to encourage state and local governments to support the move. NAPA wants governments to research, construct, and maintain the self-financed lanes.
NAPA also recommends that the Interstate Highway System median, air, and tunnel rights of way be used for these lanes.
The association's resolution points out that between 1981 and 2000, total miles of interstate highways grew 9.9%, while large-truck traffic grew 110.8%.
Large trucks accounted for 12.8% of traffic on all Interstates, and 5.8% of traffic on other roads. In addition, although large trucks accounted for 7.5% of all vehicle miles traveled on US roads in 2000, they were involved in 12.5% of highway fatalities.
Charles F Potts, NAPA second vice-chairman, says: “Unless we plan effectively and use our highway dollars wisely, there is real potential for highway deaths to rise. The fact is that our national highway system is outdated and is breaking down from over-use. Given an estimated capital value of over $25 trillion in federally aided highways alone, this is a tremendous asset that deserves to be protected.”