About
The National Gateway is a plan to create a more efficient rail route linking Mid-Atlantic ports with Midwestern markets, improving the flow of rail traffic between these regions by increasing the use of double-stack trains. This public-private partnership – expected to cost $842 million -- will upgrade tracks, equipment and facilities, and provide clearance allowing double-stack intermodal trains (intermodal cargo can be efficiently transported by ship, train or truck in standard-sized shipping containers).
The National Gateway proposes preparing three major rail corridors for double-stack clearance:
- I-95 Corridor between North Carolina and Baltimore, Maryland via Washington, D.C.
- I-76 Corridor between Washington, D.C. and northwest Ohio via Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Wilmington, North Carolina to Charlotte, North Carolina
Growing Demand
In 2004, the U.S. freight industry generated $42.2 billion in revenue. Current estimates suggest that the industry will grow up to 67 percent by the year 2020.
Clearing Routes
To realize the many benefits of increased rail capacity, certain infrastructure upgrades must be made.