(HANOVER, Md., July 12, 2022) – The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is updating the Maryland State Freight Plan and the Maryland State Rail Plan, and has published both draft plans online for a 30-day public outreach period. Both plans are critical to support federal, state and private investment in Maryland’s rail and freight network.
The Maryland State Freight Plan examines existing and projected freight and supply chain conditions, and identifies statewide freight policies, strategies and projects to improve freight movement efficiency and safety. The Maryland State Rail Plan outlines public and private investments and policies to ensure efficient, safe and sustainable movement of goods by rail. MDOT is seeking public comment on both plans during the outreach period, then will submit the
plans to the required federal agencies for review and approval.
Freight movement is critical to support the local, state and federal economy, and ensures consumers can receive goods and services they need in a timely manner. The Federal Highway Administration oversees state freight plans, which are required every four years. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 also requires certain new elements for freight plans including assessments of e-commerce, freight, supply chain flows and truck parking.
State rail plans are required by the Federal Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 (PRIIA) and the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) of 2015, which also is updated every four years. Beyond the federal requirements, the Maryland State Rail Plan’s comprehensive list of rail projects enables MDOT to work strategically with private railroads and other stakeholders to address rail needs and support where
possible.
Both plans are expected to be finalized and become available online later this year once approved by the governing federal agency. For additional details and projected schedules for both plans, visit the Maryland State Freight Plan webpage HERE
and the Maryland State Rail Plan webpage HERE. For more information or to provide input, contact JT Thomas at JThomas33@mdot.mayland.gov.
