Northwest Minnesota Freight Flow Study

Abstract

In this project, researchers studied the flow of freight in the 12-county northwestern region of Minnesota for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT). This project uses data from C.J. Peterson & Associates, as well as data on agricultural commodities, timber, and Canadian border crossings. This report identifies major commodity flows by origin and destination within and outside of the region and assigns these to a regional highway network using the QRSII model. It presents annual flows by major commodity classification on each highway link, both in weight value shipped, which permits an identification of significant freight corridors within the region. Mn/DOT plans to use this information in targeting investment and maintenance of the region's transportation infrastructure. The study also serves as a prototype for examining freight flows in other regions of the state.