Unlocking Freight

A new report from AASHTO details the need to increase transportation capacity to deliver freight.

The transportation system that supports the movement of freight across America is facing a crisis. Our highways, railroads, ports, and waterways require investment well beyond current levels to maintain – much less improve – their performance. Millions of jobs and our nation’s long-term economic health are at risk.

• Significantly more freight will be moved across the country and around the world in the 21st century.
• The current capacity of our nation’s roads, rails and seaports is not keeping pace with demand.
• The nation's freight transportation system directly affects economic development, current and future jobs, and the quality of life in our communities.
• Greater investment, better planning and more highway and rail capacity are needed to address these problems.
  
  – Expand the capacity of the Interstate Highway System.
  
  – Create and fund a national freight program that could include multi-state freight corridor organizations at the state, regional, and multi-state level.
  
  – Invest in Intermodal Connector Improvements.