The Nebraska State Patrol plans to aggressively enforce the no parking policy along the entrances and exits of Interstate 80 rest areas in response to continued illegal parking in those areas. In 1999, safety concerns prompted the State Patrol to launch a campaign to educate the public and the trucking industry about parking restrictions in rest areas. The Nebraska Department of Roads also posted no parking signs along rest area entrances and exits. The problem occurs when the designated parking areas reach capacity.
Drivers then park and sleep along the entrances and exits.
Despite the signs and warnings, cars and semi trucks continue to park along the rest area entrances and exits. The illegal parking creates a safety hazard, especially when roads are icy or snow-packed. Because of the safety concerns, the Nebraska State Patrol plans special enforcement activities focusing on rest area entrances and exits. Any illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed and drivers could face fines. A The problem seems to be especially prevalent along Interstate 80 in the areas of Kearney, Grand Island, and Seward.