Transportation Planning to Support Economic Development: An Exploratory Study of Competitive Industry Clusters and Transportation in Minnesota

 

External link: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/research/TS/2015/201502.pdf

Publication date: January 1, 2015

Capsule summary: This report examines the clustering of industries in Minnesota and the relationship between transportation patterns and economic growth.

Author(s): Munnich Jr., Lee; Iacono, Michael; Dworin, Jonathan; Brandt-Sargent, Bethany

Publisher(s): Minnesota Department of Transportation


Definition: Studying the movement of goods or commodities
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Definition: A federally funded transportation policy-making organization, comprised of local government representatives and transportation authorities
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Definition: Governmental agency focused on transportation
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Definition: Report published by a governmental body or other organization (e.g. FHWA, NAS, etc.)
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Description: The location and transportation strategies of a firm can offer a competitive advantage, which this report seeks to understand. The research takes into account the characteristics and consumers for several industry clusters in Minnesota, and examines the transportation practices within each cluster.

Objectives: The objective of this research is to examine the relationship between the development of industry clusters and the use of transportation networks. The research investigates twelve industry clusters in the state of Minnesota, composed of interviews with twenty-eight firms across the twelve industry clusters. This project aims to gain an understanding of mechanisms within local economies, and may equip transportation planners and policy makers with strategies for supporting economic growth.

Findings: The research revealed various transportation issues faced by firms, depending on their regional scope and dependence on transportation networks. For many firms, the reliability of freight networks and timely shipments is important. Other firms value the accessibility of their facilities and are seeking transportation solutions to create more efficient routes. The findings of this research suggest that analysis of industry cluster approaches to transportation can be useful to state and regional planners.

Recommendations: This report recommends adjusting planning and investment strategies to facilitate economic growth. The research team suggests that planners and policy makers prioritize freight planning and transportation investments, as it will facilitate the development of the scope and capabilities of their transportation network. By collaborating with private industry clusters, public agencies foster economic competitiveness within their community.

Research Theme: Freight and Logistics

Community Type:

Transportation Mode:

Planning Scope:

Organization Type: DOT, MPO or RPO

Planning Subject: Analysis, Development, Evaluation and Assessment, Facility or Land Use, Forecasting, Plan Implementation, Planning Methods, Transportation Planning