A Methodology for Statewide Intermodal Freight Transportation Planning

Report No: 99-R12

Published in 1998

About the report:

The researchers developed a methodology for statewide freight transportation planning that focuses on identifying and prioritizing infrastructure needs to improve the Intermodal freight transportation system. It is designed to provide the framework for state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations to meet the freight transportation planning requirements as mandated first by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and then by The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. The researchers accomplished this by interpreting the results of a literature search on the legislation, participant roles, and analytical methodologies to formulate the steps of the method and demonstrating how each step is performed. The process is based on the interaction between inputs from stakeholders and a technical analysis that provide decision support information. A case study demonstrates how the technical tasks for the system inventory and data forecasting are accomplished. The study shows that a standard but flexible freight planning methodology can help remove impediments to efficient goods transportation. Future developments such as geographic information system data, improved freight flow data, and established system inventories are shown to facilitate the recommended process.

Disclaimer Statement:The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who is responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Commonwealth Transportation Board, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. Any inclusion of manufacturer names, trade names, or trademarks is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.

Authors

  • Chistopher J. Eatough Stephen C. Brich, Michael J. Demetsky, Ph.D.

Last updated: December 12, 2023

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