NATIONAL INTERMODAL NETWORK FEASIBILITY STUDY. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report is Volume I of the series comprising the National Intermodal Network Feasibility Study. Titles of the four volumes and four appendices of the report are: Volume I - Executive Summary; Volume II - Intercity Freight Transportation; Volume III - Developing a Nationwide Intermodal Network; Volume IV - The Feasibility of a Nationwide Intermodal Network; Appendix 1 - The Intermodal Freight Transportation Market; Appendix 2 - Transportation Cost Analysis; Appendix 3 - Network Perspectives: Train, Link and Terminal Descriptions; Appendix 4 - Intermodal Terminal Manual. In summary fashion this volume presents the physical nature of the nationwide intermodal Network developed as a result of the analysis in terms of train operating patterns, link usage, terminal characteristics and railcar equipment. Based upon these components the report describes a possible pattern of traffic and investment growth during its beginning period and suggests the probable revenue and costs implications. Based upon this single start-up scenario a series of shipper, public and carrier benefits are described. This volume concludes with comments concerning the opportunities for technological improvements in a rail/truck intermodal operation.