Evaluation results from the USDOT intermodal freight ITS operational tests.

Industry and government are concerned about the capacity of ports and terminals, and the highways, rail lines, and waterways that serve them, to handle the ever increasing volumes of intermodal freight, especially containerized freight. Ineffective links among modes, particularly in terms of landside access to ports and terminals, are degrading the reliability and performance of carriers, shippers, and terminal operators. Moreover, the lack of effective information-sharing among modes creates bottlenecks and unnecessary stops and delays for vehicle and cargo documentation. These deficiencies result in increased operating costs and congestion, and decreased safety and economic competitiveness. In response to these concerns, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) over the past few years has conducted research and outreach activities to define the requirements for a national intelligent transportation systems (ITS) program for intermodal freight. The goals of this program are to enhance the safety, reliability, and responsiveness of the intermodal freight system and the national transportation system. These enhancements will contribute to the nation's economic growth and national security. The first major milestone in the USDOT's ITS/intermodal freight program is the funding, conduct, and evaluation of operational tests at major intermodal centers with significant capacity and congestion problems. The operational test program was developed by the USDOT in early 1999, and was designed to link existing private sector information and asset management systems with public sector traffic and safety management systems so that information on congestion and operations can be shared. The intent of the operational test program is to: (1) demonstrate how linkages across information systems and data sharing will improve intermodal operations by increasing efficiency and productivity; (2) increase private/public collaboration and facilitate future cooperation; spur innovation in technology, operations, and business processes; and to provide information on the need and market for an intermodal information systems architecture and data interchange standards.