Challenge
In 2021, the Lancaster County Metropolitan Planning Organization adopted Connects2050, a long-range transportation plan that emphasizes the role of freight in supporting regional economic growth and system efficiency. As part of Connects2050, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania needed a comprehensive, freight-specific inventory and assessment of infrastructure assets to make it easier to understand how bridges, truck routes, rail crossings, and other facilities were performing in relation to regional PM‑2 pavement and bridge condition measures.
Solution
Our team worked with the Lancaster County Planning Department (LCPD) to deliver a report on freight infrastructure and asset management. We compiled and evaluated a countywide inventory of freight-related assets using Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and municipal data, applied GIS mapping to identify bottlenecks and conflicts, and qualitatively integrated findings from Connects2050 and other regional studies to assess asset suitability and system performance. The study considered issues of roadway geometrics, bridge restrictions, truck parking availability, industrial land access, and system maintenance needs.
The Outcome
Helping Lancaster County Prioritize Freight Infrastructure Needs
The results from the report informed the Freight Advisory Committee’s decision-making and planning by identifying targeted, actionable improvements that strengthen freight safety, support economic activity, and improve the efficiency and reliability of goods movement throughout Lancaster County.
