Project number: NCST-TO-035

Funding source: Caltrans

Contract number: 65A0527 TO 035

Funding amount: $115,000

Performance Period: 1/7/2017 to 11/30/2017

Link to report: https://ncst.ucdavis.edu/project/managing-the-impacts-of-freight-in-cali...

Project description

This report aims to provide a statewide assessment of freight movement on traffic congestion. We distinguish between freight bottlenecks and freight impact areas. A freight bottleneck is a location where freight traffic is impeded; the emphasis of freight bottleneck studies is to reduce freight delay. Freight impact areas are locations where the concentration of truck traffic imposes delays on other traffic, and the emphasis is on mitigating these impacts. 

We compare methodologies used in previous studies and use those that most accurately measure freight-related congestion impacts. Based on the current condition of freight infrastructure in California, the report primarily focuses on the National Highway System and major arterial system. Two types of freight impact areas are identified: 1) areas on the National Highway System, ranked by their severity of congestion and delays; 2) arterial areas, with relation to major freight facilities such as airport, seaports, intermodal terminals and border crossings. This systematic assessment of freight impact areas will help Caltrans and other public agencies better understand the performance of the state's freight infrastructure, and enable targeting policies to maintain a sustainable and efficient freight system.