Multimodal Freight Policy and Innovation
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Simon Tan says:
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Bruce Abanathie says:
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Karalyn Clouser says:
Simon Tan says:
Bruce Abanathie says:
Karalyn Clouser says:
I would say pushing for more environmentally friendly technologies for freight, investing in connected technologies (connected vehicles and connected infrastructure), and having legislation that advocates for the electrification of freight vehicles.
I would like to see a greater focus on separate rights of way for electric and autonomous trucks. We know that there is an increasing shortage of truck drivers that results in truckers being encouraged to drive for longer periods of time, often resulting in drivers using various stimulants to help them stay awake. This coupled with distracted driving, which results in a disproportionate number of fatal and serious accidents highlights some of the tangible benefits of exclusive truck rights of way. Then there is the simple economic benefit, truckers would have a greater level of certainty of meeting delivery deadlines when taken out of the general traffic flow.
I would like to see a true public / private partnership focused on further development of the Hyperloop to move freight – at least initially. With the impacts of the pandemic we have clearly seen that it is very likely that e-commerce businesses will continue to grow as well as the desire for rapid delivery.
With a growing emphasis on climate change, finding ways to invest in freight modes like rail and waterways can help. Upgrades to improve speed and reliability to our waterways, and invest in rail connections to industry and intermodal facilities is a good place to start.