Interstate 19 is unique as America's only metric-signed interstate corridor, running northbound from the Mariposa Port of Entry at the Mexican border toward Tucson. Exit 17 at Rio Rico Drive serves as a vital arterial interchange for local commerce in Santa Cruz County, connecting heavy haulers and cross-border freight fleets. While Exit 17 (rio rico dr) on interstate 19 features localized commercial infrastructure, Class 8 commercial truck drivers hauling freight along this northbound trade route should plan staging and refueling carefully. Understanding access points and nearby facilities around Rio Rico Drive ensures seamless transit, reduced downtime, and safe operations through southern Arizona's key logistics corridor.
Nearby Towns and Trucking Facilities
Serving central Rio Rico and surrounding industrial zones, Exit 17 connects produce distributors and regional transport providers with main line Interstate 19 northbound and southbound lanes.
Driver Amenities and Rest Needs
Drivers can utilize food services, retail plazas, and rest zones located around the Rio Rico Drive commercial corridor.
Regulatory and Operational Information
Fleet operators must maintain vehicle inspections, registration, and logbook compliance per
FMCSA guidelines.
Fuel and Equipment Services
No dedicated Class 8 commercial truck fuel plazas or heavy-duty repair facilities exist directly at Exit 17 (Rio Rico Dr). Commercial drivers needing diesel lanes, high-flow pumps, or mobile mechanics should utilize facilities located 3 miles south at Exit 12 (Ruby Rd) or dispatch services operating along Interstate 19:
- Pilot Travel Center #279 ? 769 E Frontage Rd, Rio Rico, AZ 85648 | Phone: (520) 377-0001 | Pilot Flying J
- Love's Travel Stop #350 ? 739 E Frontage Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621 | Phone: (520) 860-6132 | Love's Travel Stop
- Cornwell's Truck Repair (Mobile Dispatch) ? Santa Cruz County / I-19 Corridor, Rio Rico, AZ | Phone: (520) 790-7990 | Cornwell's Truck Repair
Parking and Staging
There are no official DOT rest areas or dedicated Class 8 commercial truck parking lots located directly at Exit 17 (Rio Rico Dr). Drivers needing overnight truck parking or HOS break staging along Interstate 19 should plan to use nearby dedicated travel stops or state-operated rest facilities:
- Pilot Travel Center #279 ? 769 E Frontage Rd, Rio Rico, AZ 85648 (Exit 12, ~3 miles south) ? Offers approximately 90 commercial truck parking spaces, private showers, EV charging, and 24/7 dining.
- Love's Travel Stop #350 ? 739 E Frontage Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621 (Exit 12, ~3 miles south) ? Features 79 dedicated truck parking spaces, CAT scale, 8 DEF lanes, private showers, and laundry amenities.
- Canoa Ranch Rest Area (ADOT) ? Interstate 19 at Kilometer 32-33 / MP 32 (approx. 15 miles north near Green Valley, AZ) ? Official Arizona DOT rest facility offering designated commercial truck parking stalls, restrooms, picnic areas, and vending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there large truck stops at Exit 17?
While no major travel plazas exist, fleet fueling and local staging are available.
How far is Exit 17 from the Nogales Port of Entry?
Exit 17 is located approximately 13 miles north of the international border.
Is diesel fuel accessible for Class 8 trucks?
Yes, diesel lanes are present at commercial stations near the ramp.