North Dakota's grain producers rely on an efficient rail system to move their products to export and domestic markets. A recent shift to larger grain hopper cars may threaten the viability of the state's light-density branch line network. This study simulates the impacts of handling larger rail cars...

One significant consideration when examining a business venture is to define the network for the product. The network design should take into account the number, size, and location of suppliers, producers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers.The spreadsheet model allows consideration of a number...

This project investigates alternate forms of dissemination for the accident information. Costs, capabilities, and compatibility are reviewed for integration of the accident database with a GIS format to allow a graphical and spatial interface. The issues being addressed by this research focus on information...

An economic engineering model was developed to estimate start-up and operating costs of an intermodal facility located on a short line railroad. The model developed in this study has many useful features. Costs can be estimated for different equipment configurations and sizes of facilities. Sensitivity...

In this study the researchers examined the effect of pavement shoulders on the safety and structural strength of highways in Wyoming. The costs of adding shoulders to various types of highways also was examined. The study consisted of selecting representative highway sections, collecting accident data...

This study examines the cost conditions present in the Class I railroad industry. Recent mergers and merger proposals have brought forth questions regarding the desirability of maintaining competition in areas impacted by horizontal mergers and, similarly, the desirability of end-to-end mergers.

Differences that exist among truck configurations, trip and product characteristics, and input prices influence costs for individual owner/operators. Economic developers need truck cost estimates to compare transportation modes and accurately estimate transportation costs. Owner/operators and users of...

In an effort to prevent pumping and reduce premature pavement failures due to infiltrated water, UDOT has contracted Utah State University (USU) to evaluate the hydraulic conductivity (k) of Utah's dense graded untreated base course material. The hydraulic conductivity describes the ease with which water...

The project objective was to assess and determine whether the logistical practices of small and rural suppliers will allow them the opportunity to successfully participate in an integrated supply chain. The project consists of two steps. First, we identified minimal logistical capabilities a supplier...

With rapid advancement in technology, it is becoming difficult for transportation professionals to keep pace over their career lifetimes. Continuing education programs are a way to help combat this problem. These programs are being pursued by departments of transportation and universities across the...