A Partnership for Maritime Excellence
The Marine Transportation System — or MTS — consists of waterways, ports, and intermodal landside connections, which allow the various modes of transportation to move people and goods to, from, and on the water. The MTS National Advisory Council (MTSNAC) is a chartered, non-federal body, whose purpose is to advise the Secretary of Transportation on MTS issues, including the effective use and expansion of America's Marine Highway, and port development and development challenges. The Council's primary role is to provide advice and make policy recommendations to the Secretary on transportation development issues that address impediments to the effective use of America's overall MTS. However, the Council will pay specific attention to the expansion and development of the Nation's Marine Highway and port system through its Marine Highway subcommittee and the Secretary's Port Advisory Council.
The MTSNAC is designed to provide an industry stakeholder and academic prospective to Departmental policies that affect efficient and environmentally friendly waterborne freight and passenger movements. The Secretary will rely on the Council to provide him with guidance regarding the development of a national freight policy and the integration of water into the overall transportation system.
