Freight Industry Strained by New York City Demand

July 1, 2020
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New York City’s supply-in-demand is taking a heavy toll on the freight industry. 90% of all goods are delivered by truck in NYC. But without more effective streets and greener ways to move product, the city will become unlivable.

Online shopping continues to boom. Especially with the pandemic still running rampant, many citizens currently receive essential goods via online orders and deliveries. In the past five years alone, freight deliveries have risen 30%. However, the streets just aren’t built for this kind of commerce. Often, trucks must double park due to loading zones being full.

Thankfully, the Smart Truck Management Plan (STMP) means to address that.

Freight Industry Refresh: The Smart Truck Management Plan

STMP prioritizes safety and better air quality. It aims to be more effective and cause less congestion than current systems. It wants to impact neighborhoods less while still meeting the needs of New Yorkers.

STMP has done outreach in several areas over the last two years. The initiative made presentations in Staten Island, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan in 2018. Using statistics from local residents, they brainstormed some basic improvements. So far, here’s what they came up with:

  • Improved truck signage
  • Coordination with the NYPD
  • Passing out educational materials
  • Using technology to improve routes and safety
  • Incentives for trucks using alternative fuel
  • Increased loading zones
  • Condensed delivery plans
  • Consolidation centers
  • Off-hour deliveries

They also came up with some ways New Yorkers can help. Using a local locker or collection box allows trucks to make just one stop for multiple deliveries. If you’re ordering from an apartment building or at the office, try to get the community together. Decide on one vendor you all can use. Speak to vendors about electric and clean energy vehicles. They want your business; make them work for it.

The Safety Truck Management Plan is still a work in progress. If you have ideas or want to get involved, look them up and reach out. They seem plenty open to hearing feedback in these initial stages.

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