OVERVIEW

WHAT IS A LOGISTICS CENTER?

A logistics center is an integrated cargo handling and transportation facility that facilitates the movement of freight from one mode of transport to another at a terminal specifically designed for that purpose. In the case of the South Sound Logistics Center, the primary transportation mode will be rail, as opposed to truck, marine or other transportation modes.

Logistics centers are primarily intended to enhance freight-handling capacity, improve the efficiency of region-wide transportation networks and reduce truck-based travel distances. However, they can also serve other important functions. Some logistics centers provide space for rail-based distribution and manufacturing businesses, operations and dispatching centers and other functions and enterprises.

In general, logistic centers are designed to fulfill the unique transportation and economic development objectives of their specific regions. The one thing they all have in common is the critical role they play in keeping state-wide businesses competitive, regional economies vibrant and local job growth strong.

Improved freight efficiency and capacity have been identified as key goals in a number of regional and state policy documents including:

The Governor’s Global Competitiveness Council Report
Washington State Transportation Plan
Washington State Transportation Commission Rail Study
Thurston County Regional Planning Council Regional Transportation Plan
Thurston County Comprehensive Plan

South Sound Logistics Center Vision Statement

The Ports of Olympia and Tacoma have formed a partnership to plan and develop a rail-served logistics center that will create new jobs, new investments and greater economic vitality in the South Puget Sound region. Key emphasis areas include:

Transportation: Improve the efficiency for moving increased volumes of freight through the region by rail.
Environment: Use innovative environmental strategies in project planning and facility design and development.
Employment: Create new employment opportunities for residents of Thurston County and Pierce County.
Economic Development: Attract new investment and economic opportunities to the region.