Transforming US Freight Networks: DOT's New Office Spearheads Progress

In a significant move for the nation's freight sector, Allison Dane Camden assumes leadership as the first deputy assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation's freshly established Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy. Camden, drawing on her experience from the Washington State Department of Transportation, is determined to elevate the role of this office and enhance its impact on the country's freight markets.

 

Formerly the deputy assistant secretary for multimodal development and delivery in Washington State, Camden now shoulders the responsibility of coordinating national freight policy across all states. Her mandate includes the creation of a National Multimodal Freight Network (NMFN) and the oversight of a groundbreaking data portal, Freight Logistics Optimization Works (FLOW), launched by the Biden administration in March 2022.

 

In an exclusive conversation with FreightWaves, Camden shares her vision for the office and the FLOW portal, emphasizing collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and state/local entities. The interview provides insights into the immediate benefits and future goals of the office authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021.

 

**FREIGHTWAVES:** Stakeholders in the freight industry have eagerly anticipated the activation of your office since its authorization in 2021. What can companies involved in freight networks and infrastructure expect now that the office is officially operational, with you at the helm?

 

**CAMDEN:** freight now has a permanent seat at the table. While U.S. DOT has been doing commendable work for years, it has often been fragmented due to departmental silos. This new office, nested within the office of the secretary, is designed to take the lead on freight policy and seamlessly integrate ongoing efforts.

 

My goal for the freight office is to be a comprehensive solution for addressing freight needs. We aim to collaborate with other DOT units, industry partners, and state/local governments to fortify the supply chain and optimize the movement of goods. Positive changes will become apparent soon.

 

The National Multimodal Freight Network designation, a crucial part of our mission, is set to kick off in 2024. Among its goals, mandated by Congress in 2015 but never finalized, is the prioritization of investment in freight infrastructure. We're committed to making tangible progress on this front.

 

Even before my tenure, the FLOW initiative was in motion. We're witnessing the initial successes of this effort, and its impact is poised to grow substantially over time.

 

[This interview has been condensed for brevity and clarity.]

 

By taking the reins of the U.S. DOT's new freight-focused office, Allison Camden signals a transformative era for the nation's freight industry. As the office sets out to streamline policies, establish the NMFN, and harness the potential of FLOW, stakeholders can anticipate a more cohesive and efficient freight landscape in the near future.