Perceptions of freight transportation.

Haynes, Don; Wells, William · 2014 · ROSA P / Maryland. State Highway Administration

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Summary

This report presents the findings of a statewide survey conducted by the Schaefer Center for Public Policy at the University of Baltimore, commissioned by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). The study aimed to assess Maryland residents’ perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes regarding freight transportation, specifically focusing on trucking and rail modes. The research sought to understand public awareness of the Maryland Statewide Freight Plan, perceived benefits and threats of freight movement, and priorities for future infrastructure investment. The methodology involved a dual-frame telephone survey using both landline and cell phone samples, conducted between February and August 2014. The final weighted sample consisted of 790 respondents, all of whom were at least 18 years old and held a Maryland driver’s license; commercial drivers of large trucks were excluded. The survey utilized a margin of error of ±3.45% at the 95% confidence interval. Questions covered general attitudes, industry dependence, geographic impact, safety concerns, and investment priorities. Key findings reveal that while 96% of respondents considered an efficient freight system important, public awareness of specific planning efforts was low, with only 14% aware of the Maryland Statewide Freight Plan. When asked to identify freight modes, 63% cited trucking and 30% cited rail, while maritime and aviation were rarely mentioned. Respondents generally viewed Maryland’s freight system positively, with 53% rating it as excellent or good, though 29% were unsure. The public perceived freight movement as impacting the entire state equally (72%) and recognized high industry dependence, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. Regarding negative impacts, wear and tear on infrastructure (20%) and highway congestion (19%) were cited as the most important issues. Truck driver fatigue (48%) and high-speed trucking (30%) were identified as the primary safety concerns. In terms of investment, 63% prioritized roads and highways, while 26% favored rail. Notably, 37% of respondents felt current freight investment levels were "about right," though an equal percentage were unsure. The study concludes that Maryland residents broadly support efficient freight transportation and recognize its economic benefits, such as job creation and increased economic activity. However, significant gaps exist in public knowledge regarding specific freight plans and infrastructure details. The findings suggest opportunities for MDOT to educate the public on freight systems and highlight that while trucking dominates public perception and investment preference, rail remains a significant secondary mode. The data provides a baseline for understanding public sentiment to inform future policy and communication strategies regarding freight infrastructure.

Key finding

Trucking was the most recognized freight mode and top investment priority, while truck driver fatigue was the primary safety concern among Maryland drivers.

Methodology

survey

Sample size: 808

Provenance

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• incidence prevalence