Coalfield Route - Double Stack Initiative I. Introduction Concept The Coalfield Route Double Stack initiative is designed to facilitate the transfer of goods through Virginia by enabling a short rail route to Chicago by using rail in West Virginia. Currently, rail standards in West Virginia and Virginia differentiate in that West Virginia rail does not fully encompass a recent innovation in rail transportation, that of double stacking. Double stacking is placing two rail cargo containers on top of each other. Sponsoring agency, participating agencies, & non-public participation Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation West Virginia Department of Rail Private rail companies Virginia Port Authority Virginia Department of Transportation West Virginia Department of Transportation References Crist, Michael T. “Presentation: Intermodal Transportation Planning. The Next Step for Virginia. Moffatt and Nichol Engineers, July 16, “Trade and Transportation. A Study of North American Port and Intermodal Systems” published by the National Chamber Foundation of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, March 2003 “The Port of Virginia: Intermodal Planning and Connectivity” presentation to the Statewide Long- Range Multimodal Transportation Plan Policy Committee Meeting. June 25th, 2003.

II. Need And Purpose of Multimodal System West Virginia rail does not currently accommodate the height constraints of double-stacking. Double-stacking and usage of the West Virginia rail would increase the competitiveness of Virginia ports with other U.S. ports. Also: Clearing the Coalfield Route has significant impacts to the national economy The coalfield route is a true multi-state, intermodal project The federal government (Congress) would prefer to fund projects which involve Multi-State Corridors

III. Rationale For Selected Alternative Current single stack trains can be double stacked Effectively double the capacity of the train Reduced transportation cost Saves 233 miles, Norfolk-Chicago Central Appalachain Shipps could use Pritchard Yard Reduce Transit Time by 1 – ½ days Worst case benefit-cost ratio = 1.8 Other Alternatives considered No action alternative-Use existing rail routes: -VA to Chicago via TN, KY, OH -VA to Chicago via MD, PA, OH

IV. Integration Plan Multi-State Construction Authority State partnership for optimizing rail transportation may require special legislation. Authority would enter into agreements with railroads. Finances would pass through the Authority. Construction would be administered by the Authority Potential Partners Include: Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Norfolk Southern, Virginia Port Authority, Appalachian Regional Commission, Greater, Columbus Inland Port Commission, Private Railroad Companies First Steps Exploratory Discussions with proposed partners –Governors or cabinet level DOT representatives Prepare a feasibility study and implementation plan –Benefits to national economy –Plan to gain political support –Seek support from U.S. Congress