Freight Planning

The ability to move freight and goods is a critical element of the Washington region's economy. All businesses and residences rely on freight. The SAFETEA-LU legislation reaffirmed the federal emphasis on freight movement considerations in metropolitan transportation planning, and the TPB has agreed to look at ways to enhance considerations of freight in its processes.

The Washington region features all major modes of freight movement: truck, railroad, air cargo, pipeline, and even a limited amount of maritime activity. Each mode has advantages and market niches for its commodities. Much of the freight movement in the region originates or is destined here; much of it is just passing through the region on its way from and to other locations, Washington being located centrally in the populous East Coast.

Upcoming TPB freight planning activities will enhance consideration of freight in the overall regional transportation planning process.

• Development of a regional profile describing the role of freight in the region's economy, what goods are moved in the region, how they are moved (modes), where they are moved, the goods' overall impact to the region's economy, and any trends on these issues
• Locations of major freight facilities
• Locations of transportation facilities critical to regional freight movements
• Identification of freight movement stakeholders and understanding of their needs, and ongoing outreach to these stakeholders
• Safety and security considerations for freight
• Coordination with freight planning activities by member agencies and jurisdictions
• Development of an overall ongoing regional freight planning process.