In an effort to move more cargo on water rather than on our already crowded highways, US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, has announced a new program to identify rivers and coastal routes that could be used to carry cargo efficiently. Given Michigan's position on the Great Lakes, this could have a positive impact for many of our port and inland waterway communities.
Under the "America's Marine Highway" program, transportation officials will be able to apply to have specific transportation corridors and projects, designated a marine highway by the Department of Transportation if they meet certain criteria.
The initiative is the result of a 2007 law requiriing the Secretary of Transportation to "establish a short sea transportation program and designate short sea transportation projects to mitigate surface congestion."
Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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