The Statewide Freight Study is a comprehensive evaluation of freight issues that will inform the Statewide Freight Plan. It will build on issues identified in the Long Range Transportation Plan including:
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At-grade railroad crossings (delays and safety)
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Class 1 railroad business model (not serving smaller shippers)
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Shortline railroad maintenance
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Infrastructure to support new industries (such as ethanol)
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Road capacity and logistics
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State's role in freight
The Statewide Freight Study will review these issues and determine how best to address them in the future. Objectives of the Statewide Freight Study
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Describe the freight system in Kansas
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Extent of use, users, traffic and commodity flows, performance and bottlenecks
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Identify key infrastructure, operational, and institutional issues that hinder freight movements
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Statewide, regional, national and international flows and movements
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Develop strategies to improve freight mobility, safety and efficiency
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Complement and enhance existing efforts
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Develop a process for incorporating freight issues within planning and programming activities