Commitment 03Read more
Sustainable Mobility
A New Transportation System to Connect the City and the Port
Developing soft solutions for proximity-based urban logistics, by promoting the use of waterways.
How can port cities use waterways to relieve urban congestion in the port city?
The growth of cities near port areas leads to a rise in demand for goods and heavier usage of roadways. Considering the typical congestion problems that affect cities’ transport networks, waterways are becoming more attractive for goods distribution. However, for this alternative to become feasible, all stakeholders must agree on these new logistics strategies. New York City devised a joint plan for using its waterways and railroads to minimise the number of trucks entering the city.
In the summer of 2018, New York City unveiled Freight NYC, a $100 million investment plan to kick-start barge and rail transport within the city. Much of the existing infrastructure dates from the early 20th century and is largely obsolete, with almost 90% of intra-city freight being transported by truck. Some 198 million tonnes of goods passed through New York in 2016, which is estimated to rise to 312 million tonnes by 2045. The dominance of trucks is already a major cause of congestion. It is estimated that 30,000 trucks cross the Washington Bridge daily, making it the second most congested highway stretch in the USA. Moreover, traffic congestion cost $862 million in 2017, which could rise to $1.1 billion by 2045 if the problem is not tackled. With changes in consumer behaviour, the growth of e-commerce, emerging technologies (augmented reality, 3D printing, blockchain, etc.) and the need for distributors and retailers to provide just-in-time services, new logistical infrastructure models are required. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, e-commerce retail grew 3% in 2020, compared to the yearly average of 0.65% in previous years.
Access exclusive resources, services and content reserved for AIVP members.