The Wall Street Journal has an interesting article about the resurgence of freight rail transportation, due in large part to the increase in international goods being shipped to U.S. ports.

The buildout comes as the industry transitions away from its chief role in recent decades of hauling coal, timber and other raw materials in manufacturing regions. Now, increasingly, railroads are moving finished consumer goods, often made in Asia, from ports to major cities.

If properly protected from incompatible mixed uses, the Port of Providence, which already has direct rail access, is perfectly situated to take advantage of this growth.