Modernize the region’s seaports and expand rail freight access

Seaports serve a critical function of the region’s economy, moving goods from abroad to a large consumer market and supporting thousands of industrial and service jobs. Although the region’s seaport is the second largest in the United States, it is far less efficient than others, and fails to take advantage of the region’s extensive rail network. A new governance structure, and more investment in port facilities, rail connections, and access roads could lead to more port-related jobs and revenue, a bigger regional economy, and less truck traffic.