STUDIES

The Transportation Challenge:  This study was commissioned by the U.S Chamber of Commerce in April 2008 to show the linkages between the capacity and performance of the nation's transportation system and U.S. economic productivity, competitiveness, and growth.  It highlights the manner in which the U.S. and global economies are changing, how different sectors of the economy depend on transportation, the increasing demands these industry sectors are putting on intermodal transportation systems, and how present-day transportation systems are performing in response to these new demands.  

Economic Impacts of Waterborne Shipping on the Indiana Lakeshore:  This August 2010 study by Martin Associates was commissioned by the Ports of Indiana to examine and measure the local, regional and state economic impacts generated by maritime activity on Indiana's portion of Lake Michigan's shore. The study looks at the economic impact of Indiana's Great Lake Ports and industrial facilities.  The study's economic analysis shows that 104,567 jobs and $14.2 billion of economic activity in Indiana are impacted by waterborne shipping on Indiana's Lakeshore.

AAI Economic Impact Study:  The AAI Economic Impact Study was conducted by the Aviation Awareness Committee of the Aviation Association of Indiana (AAI); it was the 11th update of the 1st study completed in 1984.  This study was commissioned to address the individual value of the economic benefits generated by airports throughout the state of Indiana, and totals in dollars their combined economic benefit for the state.  The annual impact of direct and indirect airport economic activity on Indiana's economy is estimated to be more the $2.9 billion.

A Rail Strategy for Indiana:  The goal of this September 2007 Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP) report was to improve Indiana's intermodal rail service to the West Coast and develop global trade connections.  Indianapolis is strategically located at the crossroads of North America, with 65% of the U.S. population within a day's drive.  The large amount of import cargo that comes into Central Indiana by truck results in increased truck flows, and thus increased traffic.  

2009 Gear and Fulcrum:  Katz, Sapper & Miller's fourth annual Gear and Fulcrum incorporates the results of prior surveys with the information gleaned from the 2009 survey. While Indiana manufacturers will undoubtedly face continued challenges, the Gear and Fulcrum notes actions companies are taking to survive and prosper in these challenging economic times. Overall, in comparison to prior years, findings indicate a decrease in performance, an increase in operational adjustments by management and an expectation of improved performance in 2010.

Green Light Indiana:  A February 2008 presentation sponsored by Conexus Indiana and industry partners to draw attention to the growth and expansion opportunities for BNSF.  The presentation focuses on how to enhance Indiana's access to global markets, as well as how these enhancements benefit BNSF.  These enhancements include organizing Shippers Alliance and market service, improving the CSX Avon Yard Facility, and connecting to CSX in St. Louis.

Growth and Change in Logistics in Central Indiana:  The Indianapolis Private Industry Council, Inc. (IPIC) commissioned the Growth and Change in Logistics in Central Indiana study in the spring of 2006.  This study was commissioned to assess the logistics industry in Central Indiana and to project its future.  It focused on several industry sectors in a nine-county region consisting of Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Morgan, and Shelby counties.

Report Card for America's Infrastructure:  The American Society of Civil Engineers drafted the Report Card for America's Infrastructure using grades in 15 categories of infrastructure, including the newest 'levees' category.  For the second time, America's infrastructure rated a cumulative grade of D.  While not all categories fared as badly, or were plagued by the same problems, delayed maintenance and chronic underfunding were found to be the main contributors to the low grades in nearly every category.

Financing Freight Improvements:  The U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) conducted the Financing Freight Improvements study in January 2007.  This purpose of this report was  to develop a guidebook as a resource to FHWA states, metropolitan planning organizations, and other parties involved in the identification of freight needs, development of financing plans to fund projects designed to address these needs, and involved in the actual delivery of an eligible project.  The guidebook has four sections including: Funding and Financing Tools for Freight Improvements, Case Studies of Freight Financing, References, and a Glossary of Terms and list of Acronyms. 

 

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