Evaluating Multimodal Transportation Alternatives

A method for developing an evaluation methodology for multimodal intercity freight transportation in a specific corridor is presented. The area from Kansas City, Miss., to Brunswick, Ga., is used as a test corridor for the application of the multimodal concept. The unique aspects of the project limited the application of previous research because: (1)The project scope; (2)the emphasis on goods movement; (3)the significance of economic development potential; and (4)the multimodal approach. A sequential decision process was used in developing the evaluation framework: (1)An initial determination of which factors to include in the analysis was made; (2)a method for screening factors considering their utility in the final evaluation scheme was developed; (3)a method permitting flexible weighing of the factors chosen was determined; and (4)a method for identifying the individuals or groups who participate in the evaluation process (i.e., whose viewpoints are to be considered) was proposed. An interactive computer system to assist in the compilation and analysis of the individual evaluations is presented.