Tuesday, July 21, 2015

California Governor Orders Freight Efficiency Review

By Mark Edward Nero

California Governor Jerry Brown on July 16 issued an executive order calling for the development of an action plan that establishes “clear targets to improve freight efficiency, transition to zero-emission technologies, and increase competitiveness of California’s freight system.”

The plan, which is expected to be lead by the California State Transportation Agency, state Environmental Protection Agency and the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency, is due by July 2016.

Under Brown’s orderthe action plan is required to identify state policies, programs, and investments to achieve the above-stated targets, and that the plan be informed by existing state agency strategies, as well as broad stakeholder input.

“It is further ordered that agencies under my direct executive authority cooperate in the implementation of this order, and it is requested that other public and private entities assist in its development and implementation as appropriate,” Brown stated.

To ensure progress towards a sustainable freight system, Brown stated, the various entities are to initiate work this year on freight pilot projects within California’s primary trade corridors that “integrate advanced technologies, alternative fuels, freight and fuel infrastructure and local economic development opportunities.”

California is the largest gateway for international trade and domestic commerce in the US; its freight transportation system is responsible for a third of the state’s economy and jobs.