Truck stops seek federal boost for alternative fuel infrastructure

The National Association of Truck Stop Operators has filed comments urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to work with the industry on a strategy for accelerating construction of fuel stations for alternative fuels on major highways.

   The trade association for travel plazas and truckstops, known as the National Association of Truck Stop Operators (NATSO), has filed comments urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to work with the industry on a strategy for accelerating construction of fuel stations for alternative fuels on major highways.
   The FAST Act surface transportation bill, which was enacted in January, directed the U.S. Department of Transportation to identify and establish fuel corridors to support alternative-fueling stations, including electric, hydrogen, propane and natural gas fueling infrastructure, at strategic locations for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
   NATSO urged the department to strengthen incentives for private investment in alternative-fuel infrastructure.
   The group opposes having fuel stations at state-owned rest stops, which it sees as competition for its members.
   “Furthering the deployment and use of charging and alternative fueling facilities is best realized if the travel plaza and truckstop industry’s business environment is recognized as an asset,” NATSO President Lisa Mullings said in a statement. “Building alternative fuel facilities at truckstops provides the opportunity for an incremental investment at an existing facility. This is a very efficient way of accomplishing the Administration’s goals.”