Frequently Asked Questions About the Southwest Supply Chain Coalition
What are the objectives of the Southwest Supply Chain Coalition?
The goal of the Coalition is to design AND implement sustainable regional and corridor supply chain infrastructure plans in NV, CA, AZ and UT. Together, we will advance individual projects that align with these plans to improve community and regional vitality, while mitigating negative environmental and social impacts. The Coalition will empower business and community success with improved freight logistics. We will be seeking to expand the number and quality of jobs in the region.
What are key issues the Southwest Supply Chain Coalition will address?
- The lack of appropriate regional supply chain systems planning. Sustainable supply chains require pragmatic collaboration among business, communities, and government, none of the existing entities involved in supply chain commerce or policymaking have a mandate to facilitate this collaboration
- The need for new avenues for communication to facilitate a balance between community needs and the interests of freight transportation providers and shippers
- The absence of multi-state coordination between public agencies, port authorities, economic developers, businesses, communities, and transportation providers
- California’s supply chains have expanded into Nevada, Arizona, and Utah for warehousing, distribution, and production in a chaotic and uncontrolled manner
- The need for additional intermodal service to offset undue reliance on trucks
- The crucial role of sustainability issues in industrial development
- The incorporation of community input into plans and investments
- The lack of supply chain systems planning is damaging our environment and quality of life yet the voting public is generally unaware of the relative impact of the rail, trucking, and energy industries on sustainability. Communities deserve to know that their concerns are incorporated wisely into plans and investments.
Who can become a Member of the Coalition?
Anyone sharing the goals of the Coalition can join. Organizations do not have to be physically located in Nevada, California, Utah or Arizona in order to join and participate.
What will Coalition Members do?
Members and member organizations will provide input and perspectives on specific supply chain projects based on their own challenges and areas of expertise.
What is the time commitment to participate?
This will vary based upon your organization’s desired level of engagement. We estimate that the maximum time commitment will be 2 hours per week to give input on projects through IntelliConferences. Participation is encouraged, but always optional.
Who is behind the Coalition?
The Southwest Supply Chain Coalition was formed in August 2021 by OnTrackNorthAmerica (OTNA) in partnership with Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak and the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development. Press release
How many members are in the Coalition?
The Coalition is only just formed so it currently includes foundation members from the states. It is anticipated between 500 and 2,000 Members will join within the initial 12 months.
What is OnTrackNorthAmerica (OTNA)?
OnTrackNorthAmerica is a 501c3 nonprofit infrastructure design organization founded in 2007 by Michael Sussman, CEO and Ken Youmans, Managing Director. The OTNA Board of Directors includes the former Chairs of the Surface Transportation Board and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. OTNA facilitated stakeholder engagement for the 2021 Nevada Rail Plan.
What are IntelliConferences?
Based on twenty years of research into effective collaboration, IntelliConferences are a groundbreaking moderated approach to convening stakeholders online. The system produces better thinking, decision making and outcomes. It allows Members to provide their input asynchronously (at different times), making it flexible and easy to participate.
Will the Coalition be an ongoing entity, or does it have a fixed end point?
It is an on-going entity, designed to continue through any changes in political leadership and or other changes in critical stakeholder/individuals throughout the Southwest region
Can members participate on their own schedule, or will they have to make time to virtually attend an event?
There is great flexibility. Whilst specific IntelliConferences are scheduled they are arranged collaboratively and would be a weekly time arranged asynchronously
Where can I get more information?
contact@supplychaincoalition.org