The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is looking for innovative and environmentally sensitive ways to move freight across the state. But before the agency puts pen to paper on the planning side, they are asking transportation specialists for “how to” ideas.
“At this stage, we are asking for ideas that are financially and technologically feasible, environmentally appropriate, supportive of a robust and growing Texas, and that lessen long-term carbon dependency,” said TxDOT's Director for Innovative Project Development Phil Russell. Potential systems could include technology involving electromagnetic propulsion, where the electricity is supplied by green technology such as wind or solar generation. Such systems could potentially operate on a rail or other fixed channel.
With Panama Canal improvements progressing and Texas' growing global market presence, the efficient movement of freight is a key component in the future of Texas transportation and its economy, particularly facilities that provide “green” alternatives.
Any responses to the RFI should be submitted by March 19 to Mark Tomlinson, P.E., Texas Turnpike Authority Division, 125 East 11th Street, Austin, TX 78701-2483. The entire RFI may be viewed on the Texas Register website at www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg in the archived issue for Dec. 19, 2008.
