Intermodal transportation has become a game-changer for organizations worldwide. After all, it eliminates red tape on customs, provides reliable delivery notifications, and reduces inventory costs. In North America alone, intermodal freight reached 18.4 million shipments in 2021, dramatically impacting businesses of various sizes and industries.
As an independent agent of Landstar, our team at Jansson would like to share some of the plans the Biden administration has in store for the industry.
This article will discuss some major intermodal transportation projects we can expect from the U.S. government.
The RAISE Program
Last August, Pete Buttigieg, the Secretary of Transportation, announced that the Biden administration approved a budget of over $2.2 billion for the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. The goal is to modernize intermodal transportation — including bridges, ports, and roads — to make systems more accessible, affordable, and sustainable.
With the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the department can use an additional $7.5 billion over the next five years for this program. Secretary Buttigieg boasts that the administration “supports more (infrastructure) projects than ever before.”
Sample Projects
In 2022, RAISE grants are for exclusive use for planning and capital investments that support intermodal transportation, bridges, ports, roads, and similar projects. Below are some ongoing projects under the RAISE program.
New Berth 301
Meanwhile, in Tampa, Florida, the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) funded a project for Port Redwing to connect Berths 300 and 302 with a 1,025-foot dock. The goal is to add capacity, reduce emissions, and create hundreds of jobs. With this expansion, Bertu 301 can process more cargo and support more businesses with their supply chain requirements.
The Wilcox Boulevard Bridge
USDOT now has the capital to replace the Wilcox Boulevard Bridge in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The city will receive $25 million in federal funds for this project — one of the largest awards from RAISE.
Additionally, District 28 State Representative Yusuf Hakeem claims its completion will not only benefit Chattanooga but also the entire region. The new bridge will connect East Chattanooga to the Riverfront, accommodating the safe and efficient movement of freight trucks on the structure.
The Victory Project
In Lyon County, Nevada, USDOT aims to set the Victory Project in motion. This effort will connect the Nevada Pacific Parkway from I-80 to Highway 50, enhancing industrial leads throughout the Victory Logistics District industrial park. Businesses will appreciate the improved supply chain efficiency that will eventually lower the cost of goods.
Final Thoughts
Intermodal transportation plays a crucial role in the success of modern organizations. While the U.S. industry is far from perfect, it is reassuring to know that the Biden administration set the RAISE program in motion.
Are you looking for a reliable and affordable way to ship your products? Jansson — an independent Landstar agent — can serve your intermodal transport needs. Request a free, no-obligation quote to start enjoying our world-class services.
