01719254

Monograph

http://www.trb.org/Main/Blurbs/179650.aspx

This report synthesizes existing prioritization practices for freight projects. Freight investment project prioritization approaches increasingly underpin planning and programming decisions. However, these approaches can differ widely by state departments of transportation. This synthesis may serve as a resource for state departments of transportation seeking guidance on effective approaches to integrating freight prioritization processes into agency practices and seeking to increase the efficiency of such processes. The information contained in this synthesis was obtained by using three sources. First, a literature review compiled existing research on the subject. Second, the consultant surveyed state departments of transportation. Finally, the consultant developed six concise case examples that highlight different freight project prioritization approaches. Findings show that agency and organization perspectives range drastically in freight planning and project prioritization, specifically among state departments of transportation, metropolitan planning organizations, local governing bodies, trucking companies, logistic providers, economic development agencies, commercial real estate developers, railroad companies, and retailers. Nevertheless, the literature review identified four common methodology types: tier-based methods, step-based methods, criteria- or goal-based methods, and prioritization assistance tools. This report includes the terms “process” and “method” throughout, and a distinction between the two is important. A process is broadly defined and comprises various methods that describe the overall collection of steps that governing bodies use to prioritize freight projects. Methods are more specific and targeted, and several can be used in the prioritization process. Cost–benefit analyses were the original highway prioritization method recommended by Federal Highway Administration; however, today, cost–benefit analyses are a single component in an overall prioritization process.

Project 20-05, Topic 49-01

English

159p

2019

NCHRP Synthesis of Highway Practice

9780309480659

Digital/other

Appendices; Figures; References; Tables

Freight transportation; Investments; Programming (Planning); Strategic planning

Administration and Management; Finance; Freight Transportation

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Oct 7 2019 9:07AM