New Freight Policy Council Created

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced this week the formation of a policy group created to improve the condition and performance of the nation's freight network. The group was formed to begin implementation of MAP-21 requirement to develop a National Freight Strategic Plan. The new Freight Policy Council, will be chaired by Deputy Transportation Secretary John Porcari and include Administration representatives covering highways, rail, ports, and airports, as well as economic and policy experts. States will be asked to offer input to improve the freight system in their regions, while the freight and logistics industries, consumers, and other stakeholders will serve in an advisory capacity to the council. AGC will provide input to the Council. According to Secretary LaHood, the Freight Policy Council's main focus will be to develop a national, intermodal plan for improving the efficiency of freight movement, and will work with states to encourage development of a freight strategy to move the nation into the future.