In this episode, we explore the intricate world of Texas-Mexico border crossings, focusing on the challenges and decisions that affect shippers, carriers, and cargo alike. With insights from Texas A&M Transportation Institute's groundbreaking research, we discuss how the Direct Cost Estimation Tool provides a deep look at costs across six major border crossings. From Laredo's high traffic and massive delays to the efficiencies of smaller crossings like Santa Teresa, we examine how different cargo types, road conditions, and logistics strategies impact crossing efficiency. Tune in to discover the complex decisions behind border logistics and the potential future solutions for a smoother, smarter flow of goods.

This white paper from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute examines the potential consequences of a Category 5 hurricane directly hitting Houston, particularly during the construction of the North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP). The paper highlights the critical need for effective evacuation and resiliency planning in such scenarios, emphasizing the challenges posed by construction-related disruptions and the limitations of existing simulation models. The authors propose a new simulation-based modeling platform that utilizes parallel processing and cluster computing to enhance the speed and scope of disaster planning simulations, thereby enabling decision-makers to evaluate various "what-if" scenarios and make informed decisions before, during, and after extreme weather events.

This episode provides a glimpse in the exiting world of research related to transportation at the US-Mexico border.