Implementation

Freight

MAP-21 freight provision

MAP-21 creates a streamlined, performance-based and multimodal program to address the many challenges facing the U.S. transportation system. National goals are identified for performance evaluation. They include:

improving safety
maintaining infrastructure condition
reducing traffic congestion
improving efficiency of the system and freight movement
protecting the environment
reducing delays in project delivery

MAP-21 also includes a number of provisions designed to enhance freight movement in support of the national goals. These provisions are intended to improve the condition and performance of a National Freight Network by identifying the components of the network, which are designated by the U.S. DOT Secretary. It includes incentives to prioritize projects that advance freight performance targets. A national freight strategic plan will be developed.

MAP-21 Freight Implication	Actions taken
State Freight Plans States are encouraged to develop a freight plan that provides a comprehensive plan for the immediate and long-range planning activities and investments of the State with respect to freight. State Freight Plans may be developed separately from or incorporated into the statewide strategic long-range transportation plan.	Minnesota completed its first statewide freight plan in 2005 independently from the transportation long-range plan with a robust emphasis on project development, performance management and investment strategies with private sector participation.
Enhance eligibility for projects A project or part of a program of projects supporting progress toward the achievement of national performance goals for improving infrastructure condition, safety, mobility, or freight movement on the National Highway System.	The Minnesota Statewide Freight Plan is scheduled to be completed in June 2015. The Plan will identify projects that improve infrastructure, safety, mobility and freight movement on the National Highway System.
Freight Advisory States are encouraged to establish a freight advisory committee consisting of a representative cross-section of public and private sector freight stakeholders including representatives of ports, shippers, carriers, freight related associations, freight industry workforce, the transportation department of the State, and local government.	Minnesota currently has a Freight Advisory Committee established in 1998. MAP-21 encourages increased roles and responsibilities for the group. Discussions are taking place to determine if MFAC will address MAP-21 guidelines.
Jason Law (Truck Parking) outlines specific language addressing the shortage of long‐term commercial motor vehicle parking along the National Highway System.	MnDOT is conducting the Truck Parking Availability System study, to assess the availability of truck parking spaces at public and private facilities along the I-94 Corridor. Scheduled for completion December 2014.