Engineering Commons^™

Inland Waterways Funding Mechanisms Synthesis, Doug Kreis, Bryan Gibson, Christopher W. Van Dyke, Candice Y. Wallace, Sarah M. Mccormack

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The inland waterway system is a vital part of the nation’s multi-modal freight network. Although less visible than other modes, inland waterways allow shippers to transport bulk commodities in a relatively cheap and environmentally-friendly method. To ensure this transportation mode remains a feasible option and accommodates growth, it must continue to be safe, efficient, and functional. This synthesis provides comprehensive perspective on the financial prospects of the inland waterways system. It analyzes current funding levels, along with proposed funding changes and reforms.

Financial support for the inland waterways system comes from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF). Historical data gathered …

Inland Waterway Operational Model & Simulation Along The Ohio River, Doug Kreis, Roy E. Sturgill, Brian K. Howell, Christopher W. Van Dyke, D. Stephen Voss

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The inland waterway system of the U.S. is a vital network for transporting key goods and commodities from the point of production to manufacturers and consumers. Shipping materials via the inland waterways is arguably the most economical and environmentally friendly option (compared to hauling freight by trains or railways). Despite the advantages the inland waterways enjoys over competing modes, key infrastructure – such as locks and dams, which help to control water levels on a number of rivers and make navigation possible – is declining. Limited funds have been allocated to make the necessary repairs to lock and dam facilities. …

2013 Barge And Rail Symposium: Moving Freight Between Multimodal Systems, Doug Kreis, Candice Y. Wallace

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Symposiums and peer exchanges are critical venues in which researchers meet and exchange new ideas and share the results of projects with colleagues. These gatherings are particularly important for multidisciplinary research areas. Despite knowledge rapidly developing in these fields, too often conversations do not take place between individuals who occupy different research niches. This delays efforts to implement new solutions to critical, everyday problems. Currently, there is no annual meeting at which researchers doing work on freight transportation shipped on the inland waterways and railways gather to present their findings to a broad cross section of government, industry, and academic …