The American Association of Port Authorities and its U.S. members are working hard in Washington to influence federal policy in a range of areas. In 2015, a major focus will be on advancing a national freight strategy, including needed investments in port-related infrastructure. We are partnering with freight stakeholders to ensure the upcoming transportation reauthorization provides dedicated programs and funding for freight transportation, including landside access to seaports. We will also continue to advance our “Hit the HMT Target” campaign to make sure the funding targets set forth in the last year’s water resources bill are met to better maintain channels and provide more equity.
Despite the undisputed economic importance of efficient cargo movement, freight investments are disadvantaged in the current transportation planning process. These projects are lumped in with non-freight projects vying for limited resources. There’s also a lack of coordination among various government entities and freight stakeholders, as well as limited availability of public funds to address the chokepoints.
The AAPA applauds and supports the Obama administration’s GROW AMERICA Act. We’re particularly enthused over GROW AMERICA’s inclusion of a dedicated freight program that would invest $10 billion over four years. A dedicated freight program will help leverage existing infrastructure assets for additional private sector investment.
AAPA’s goals for a national freight policy include:
— Dedicated funding for freight projects.
— Direct funding for port connectors.
— Eligibility for port authorities to apply directly for project funds through federal and state freight programs.
— Inclusion of intermodal connectors on the Primary Freight Network.
— Increased freight and maritime expertise at state DOTs.
Please join the AAPA in urging Congress and the administration to pass a robust surface transportation authorization that prioritizes freight mobility and intermodal access to seaports.
Kurt Nagle, President and CEO, American Association of Port Authorities