MPC
Research Projects (2004-05)

Identifying Number

MPC-248

Project Title

Wyoming Freight Movement System Vulnerabilities and ITS

University

University of Wyoming

Project Investigator

Dr. Rhonda Young
University of Wyoming
(307)766-2184
rkyoung@uwyo.edu

External Project Contact

John Lane
Systems Planning Engineer
Wyoming Department of Transportation
(307)777-4180
john.lane@dot.state.wy.us

Project Objective

The main objective of this research work is to investigate the movement of freight in the state of Wyoming. This work is a continuation of a previous project that developed an understanding of the commodity flow within the state of Wyoming. To meet this objective the following major research tasks are proposed:

• Analyze transportation system ulnverabilities
• Develop framework for addressing vulnerabilities through a homeland security management plan
• Link freight planning effort with the Intelligent Transportation System efforts currently underway in Wyoming

Project Abstract

The movement of freight within the state of Wyoming is very critical to Wyoming's economy as well as the national economy. Wyoming's transportation system provides a vital link for the movement of commodities across the United States, in addition to providing access to the mineral, industrial, and agricultural resources of Wyoming. Because of the important economic role played by freight goods movement, research into freight transportation is extremely valuable. Concerns with freight transportation is often focused on several broad areas including economics, safety, affects of freight vehicles on transportation infrastructure, and in the forefront today, transportation security and homeland defense.

The intent of this research is two-fold. First is to use the commodity flow estimates and freight volumes generated in the previous research effort to analyze the transportation system for vulnerabilities. This analysis will lead to the development of a framework for addressing system vulnerabilities through a homeland security plan. Lastly, this research will link the freight planning efforts of this and the previous research project to the on-going efforts in the area of intelligent transportation systems.

A review of freight transportation security and ITS planning in adjacent states will be performed as well as a literature review regarding the state of the practice in these areas. This material will be reviewed and used to help guide the research. Although there has been research in this area, there have not been any extensive studies related directly to Wyoming.

The estimates of both freight vehicle movement and commodity flow in the state will be used to analyze the importance of freight routes based on value and security risks on the goods being moved. These estimates include movement completely within the state of Wyoming as well as travel that originates or ends in the state. The identified critical segments will be further analyzed using system analysis tools to determine the vulnerabilities of the system. This analysis will be incorporated into a homeland security plan framework that will aid the department of transportation in planning for unexpected events. While the risk for direct terrorists attacks in Wyoming may be low, it is wise for all DOTs to have plans in place. Also, terrorist attacks in other areas of the country can have trickle-down affects that must be planning for.

Lastly, the understanding of freight movement in Wyoming from the current and previous efforts will be applied to the intelligent system plans on-going in the state. ITS has considerable applications in the freight area and this will be studied.

Task Descriptions

1. Conduct a literature review and review of adjacent state's efforts
2. Identify system vulnerabilities
3. Develop homeland security plan framework
4. Address ITS and freight movement issues in Wyoming
5. Submit final report
6. Submit a technical paper to the Transportation Research Board meeting

Milestones, Dates

Starting Date: July 1, 2004
Ending Date: June 30, 2005

Yearly and Total Budget

$42,570

Student Involvement

One graduate student and a part-time undergraduate student assistant

Relationship to Other Research Projects

This research is a continuation of a related research effort entitled "Wyoming Freight Movement and Wind Vulnerability" funded by the Mountain-Plains Consortium and the Wyoming Department of Transportation in 2003-04.

Technology Transfer Activities

Research effort can be applied to the development of statewide freight movement and homeland security management plans. Research also has implications for Region 8 impacts in both the freight and security areas. The research results will be disseminated through a final report, a technical paper and presentations.

Potential Benefits of the Project

The results of this research effort will provide transportation planners in the state and region with a better understanding of the travel patterns and flow of goods within and through the state. This information can be used by agencies to better plan for freight transportation. In addition, the research will lead to the identification of critical freight infrastructure and system vulnerabilities, which are necessary in planning for homeland security and adverse weather responses.

TRB Keywords

Freight traffic, freight transportation, freight security, transportation planning