Freight Planning

Freight and logistics play vital roles in a multimodal transportation system and regional economy. Freight and related industrial activity include trucks and other commercial vehicles with a dedicated purpose such as delivery, transporting goods to and from one mode of transportation to another, movement of goods from storage to businesses, and other material movements to support economic activity. The movement of goods by road, rail, water, and air is and always has been critical to the availability of the necessities of life and economic activity in the Boston metropolitan region. Freight movements span the region and require coordinated efforts from MPO staff, regional stakeholders, and decision-makers. MPO staff conduct research on multiple fronts and lead several regional initiatives related to freight.

The Freight Planning Program

The Freight Planning Program is an integral component of the Federal 3C (continuing, comprehensive, and cooperative) transportation planning process; therefore, Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) are federally required to explicitly consider, analyze as appropriate, and reflect freight facilities and movements in their planning processes. The Boston Region MPO aims to improve freight transportation safety, accessibility, and equity; reduce environmental effects of freight vehicles/warehouses; and promote freight efficiency. The program recognizes ongoing and new developments in the freight sector and encourages the expansion of sustainable modal choices in moving goods. Through the program, we aim to identify key issues, set priorities, and support efficient movement of goods within the Boston metropolitan region and beyond. Our work within the program strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the freight sector and consequent negative impacts on communities in the Boston metropolitan region.