Rail |
Rail is one of many key elements of a balanced transportation network for the future. Maryland's economic competitiveness in the nation depends upon a system that can effectively handle growing volumes of freight and seamlessly link all modes (highway, rail, marine, and aviation) while coexisting with automobiles, transit, and other mass and personal transportation. Unresolved congestion can add significantly to the cost of goods produced and consumed, degrade air quality, increase greenhouse gases, decrease employee productivity, and adversely impact tourism. Maryland is proactive in planning and project implementation to improve freight flow, especially with rail. The Office of Freight and Multimodalism (OFM) serves as the primary rail resource for the Secretary of Transportation and modal administrations. OFM serves on numerous statewide and national transportation committees, advisory boards, and panels with the objective of protecting and enhancing the benefits of rail. The office also maintains a strong working relationship with Class I railroads and Amtrak and several shortline railroads in order to implement projects and resolve issues related to chokepoints or freight connectivity. |
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