Clearing Routes
Clearing the route from Mid-Atlantic ports to Midwest markets would benefit the nation and is the primary goal of the National Gateway public-private partnership.
The rail infrastructure on the National Gateway routes is not currently equipped to accommodate double-stack freight trains, and rail lines, bridges and tunnels must be upgraded. As the rate of freight shipping increases, these lines will become more congested, raising shipping costs and potentially crowding passenger and other services. Clearing the routes for double-stack trains to move freely between Mid-Atlantic ports and Midwest markets will greatly increase the capacity of these lines.
Strengthening Infrastructure
Projected increases in domestic and international freight call for a strong rail infrastructure with increased capacity to serve the needs of the nation's markets and consumers.
Increasing Efficiency
Double-stack trains can deliver more freight with fewer trains - dramatically increasing efficiency while reducing rail line and highway congestion.