RECORD OF MEETING

FREIGHT TASK FORCE

 

DATE/TIME/PLACE: Monday, October 20, 1997; 2 PM; CDTC Offices, 5 Computer Drive West, Colonie

ATTENDANCE:  Ted Thompson (NYSDOT Region 1), Jack Earl (NYSDOT Freight and Economic Development Division),  Larry Arnold (UPS), Art Dutcher (DUI), Brian Gallagher (BLE/Conrail), Bill Nykorchuck (MAN of NY), Lieutenant Steve Cumuletti (NYS Police), Steve Allocco, Kristina Younger (CDTC)

 

DISCUSSION SUMMARY: Welcome, introductions, and agenda review started the meeting.

 

Status Reports/Current Events: The material included in the mailing was reviewed.  Discussion focused on the Conrail acquisition, the (dismal) current state of affairs out west with the Union Pacific and its impact on the Conrail sale.  After discussion, the task force recommended that a letter be sent to the Surface Transportation Board and CSX/NS where the CDTC takes a stronger stance than in previous correspondence.  The letter should reiterate already stated concerns, particularly over safety, competitive access, and level and quality of service.  Concerns are being raised, and economic investment decisions being delayed due to lack of communication with local shippers and carriers.  Albany's geographic position gives us a linking role in the system (no matter what its configuration).  Letter should be clear that we are not declaring support or opposition to the acquisition -- but that we haven't been provided with enough detailed information for our area to make an informed decision.

 

Status of CDTC Activities: Kristina Younger noted the success of the Roundtable and provided copies of CSX's presentation to the Business Council to interested parties. Kristina is going to be loaned to CDTA for a year, starting in November, but will be continuing her duties with the task force.  A separate project manager will be hired for the tandem Lot Relocation Study, however.  Also, work on integrating the railroad grade crossing inventory into the Geographic Information System (GIS) will begin over the winter.

 

PRESENTATION:  Northway Incident Management: Lieutenant Steve Cumoletti from NYS Police Troop G gave a presentation on current cooperative efforts underway to clear accidents faster on the Northway and other Capital Region highways.  A number of questions regarding Northway operations (the wave theory of congestion, staffing of the substation at Exit 9, cooperation with local agencies) were discussed.  The Traffic Operations Center will not be a "Taj Mahal to technology" like some others have been, but rather begin with basic communications.  The role of call-ins, particularly "Truck Watch" on the Thruway,  in reporting accidents and other matters were highlighted.  Uses for the data collected were noted.

 

 

ACTION ITEMS:

 

·       CDTC staff will continue to monitor the Conrail merger proceedings and provide status reports.

·       NEXT TASK FORCE MEETING: Monday, January 26, 1998, 2 - 4 PM.  AT THE NORTHEAST INDUSTRIAL PARK IN GUILDERLAND.  Agenda to include: Member updates, status of the Tandem Lot Relocation Study, Conrail acquisition, and tour of facility.

·       Thruway Authority will provide CDTC with a list of current tandem lot users to help in establishing an advisory committee for the tandem lot relocation study.