The Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors (CAGTC) applauds the appointment of three of its members to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) National Freight Advisory Committee (NFAC). CAGTC’s Founding Chairman Mort Downey, Majestic Realty’s Fran Inman, and Karen Schmidt of Washington State’s Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board have been named to the NFAC roster. Initiated by the USDOT this year, the NFAC is composed of 47 members holding varied expertise on freight transportation.
“I am pleased and honored to join the National Freight Advisory Committee and look forward to working with my fellow Committee members,” said Mort Downey, who will represent CAGTC on the NFAC. “Establishment of this Committee shows USDOT’s dedication to ensuring that freight planning and programming benefit all system stakeholders. There is important work to be done and I am eager to contribute my experience and perspective.”
The NFAC is tasked with advising USDOT on implementation of the freight transportation requirements of MAP-21, including establishment of the National Freight Network, a National Freight Strategic Plan, and development of strategies to help States implement State Freight Advisory Committees and State Freight Plans. Committee members will also assist in establishing measures of conditions and performance in freight transportation and provide freight-related legislative recommendations.
“I believe efficient transportation infrastructure will be at the core of our future success, and clearly the expeditious movement of freight will play an important role,” said Fran Inman, Senior Vice President of Majestic Realty and California Transportation Commissioner. “I am excited to participate as a member of the National Freight Advisory Committee and hope that my understanding of the marketplace will be beneficial.”