Rep. Sires introduces MOVE Act to strengthen freight network

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor

U.S. Rep. Albio Sires (D-NJ) introduced the Multimodal Opportunities via Enhanced (MOVE) Freight Act of 2013 on March 5.

Other supporters include U.S. Representatives Adam Smith (D-WA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Janice Hahn (D-CA), Corrine Brown (D-FL) and Grace Napolitano (D-CA).

The purpose of the act is to strengthen the national freight transportation policy by creating a national plan for moving goods efficiently. The MOVE Act would direct the federal government to ensure the various and essential modes of the freight network are accounted for and provide investment in freight transportation projects.

“With freight volumes expected to more than double by 2040 to nearly $40 trillion annually, it is imperative that our nation craft a strategic, all-inclusive freight policy that provides for the reliable, efficient and safe movement of goods,” said Rep. Sires.

The MOVE Freight Act would expand the definition of the national freight network to include rail, navigable waterways, inland ports, seaports, freight intermodal connectors, airports and aerotropolis transportation systems.

In addition, this legislation would create a National Freight Infrastructure Investment Grants program. Eligible projects include port development, freight rail improvement, intelligent transportation systems and other projects to improve goods movement. These competitive grants will be awarded to projects with the highest system performance improvement relative to their benefit-cost analysis.

“Our transportation infrastructure is outdated and growing congestion has led to increased costs across the nation,” said Rep. Sires. “This legislation will update the current freight system to ensure our nation is prepared to compete in a global economy.”

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