Rick Toole Appointed to Georgia Freight & Logistics Commission

A recent surge in population and economic growth in Georgia has led to the need for a comprehensive study on freight and logistics throughout the state, in particular with regard to the use of rail. Created by the state legislature, the Freight & Logistics Commission is tasked with studying Georgia’s transportation network and rail system to find ways to move freight more efficiently throughout the state, spurring continued growth and job creation.

In an announcement about the Commission, Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan explained, “The Freight & Logistics Commission will be charged with studying how we can harness the logistics industry to provide transportation solutions to Georgia’s businesses and citizens. Transportation efficiency is critical to Georgia’s economic future and I’m excited to work with the Commission as well as Governor Kemp and Speaker Ralston to continue delivering results.”

Rick Toole, PE, Vice President and Georgia Division Manager at Alfred Benesch & Company, has been appointed as one of the logistics professionals on the Commission. Comprised of 22 members, Rick represents the only licensed engineer on the Commission and will serve amongst state legislators, agency and stakeholder officials, and other logistics experts from the private industry.

With almost 40 years in the engineering profession, Rick has experience with transportation design, capacity planning, alternatives analysis and assessing a variety of infrastructure needs. He brings a unique perspective to the Commission, with the ability to provide insights into the feasibility of ideas and changes proposed to the state’s transportation system.