Time Schedule:
Edward D Mccormack
CEE 591
Seattle Campus
Overview of the technical and institutional aspects of transporting freight. Topics include the different modes of moving freight, the technology of transferring freight between modes at ports and terminals, issues that impact freight movement such as congestion and government regulation, and the future of freight mobility.
Class description
This course will provide students with an understanding of the technical, and the related institutional, aspects of moving freight. The course will initially review the role freight plays as part of our transportation system and for our economy. The course will then take a more detailed look at the characteristics of different modes: land (both truck and rail), water, and air. The course will cover the transfer of freight between modes (i.e. intermodal operations at ports, truck and rail terminals, and airports) and across borders. This area will be given emphasis because it is this intermodality that both gives the freight system great flexibility but is also point that presents the greatest challenge in moving goods. The design and function of intermodal facilities will be addressed as well as some of the institutional issues that impact these facilities (such as customs and inspections, traffic congestion, and land shortages). The future of freight mobility will be explored in light of the national emphasis on security and as well as due to the application technology. A number of the topics will be covered by guest lectures. The students will be expected to apply the concepts covered in the course to a paper or project study.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
