Washington, D.C. - The Biden administration has taken a major step towards improving the efficiency of US freight transportation with the establishment of the Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy and the appointment of Allison Dane Camden as its first Deputy Assistant Secretary. This new office, housed within the Department of Transportation (DOT), aims to be a one-stop shop for tackling freight needs and ensuring smoother movement of goods across the country.
Freight Gets a Seat at the Table: Prior to Camden's appointment, freight policy at the DOT was often fragmented and siloed. The new office aims to change that by bringing together various departments and stakeholders, including industry partners, state and local governments, and ports. This collaborative approach is expected to significantly improve the planning and execution of freight infrastructure projects, optimize supply chains, and ultimately benefit both businesses and consumers.
National Multimodal Freight Network on the Horizon: One of the key initiatives under Camden's leadership is the development of a National Multimodal Freight Network (NMFN). This network will prioritize investment in critical infrastructure projects that connect different modes of transportation, such as roads, railroads, and waterways. The NMFN is expected to boost the efficiency of freight movement and reduce congestion, leading to cost savings and improved competitiveness for US businesses.
FLOW: Data-Driven Solutions for a Stronger Supply Chain: Another major focus of the new office is the Freight Logistics Optimization Works (FLOW) initiative. Launched in March 2022, FLOW is a data-sharing platform that allows private sector companies and public agencies to share and analyze freight data. This valuable information can be used to improve decision-making, optimize routes, and identify potential bottlenecks in the supply chain.
Early Success and Growing Momentum: Despite its short lifespan, FLOW has already achieved significant results. With 65% of all US container import bookings now on the platform, FLOW boasts participation from major players like top container ports, ocean carriers, and chassis providers. This widespread adoption demonstrates the growing trust and value companies see in data-driven solutions for supply chain challenges.
Looking Ahead: While some major players like certain Class 1 railroads are still missing from FLOW, Camden is confident that the platform will continue to attract more participants as its benefits become increasingly apparent. The upcoming launch of an interactive demo portal will further showcase the potential of FLOW and encourage broader participation.
Benefits for All: The Biden administration's focus on freight infrastructure and data-driven solutions is expected to have a positive impact on all stakeholders. Businesses will benefit from improved efficiency and reduced costs, while consumers can expect a more reliable and affordable flow of goods. Ultimately, a stronger and more resilient freight system will contribute to a more robust and competitive US economy.
