the proposing state and the shipper should consult with the affected state(s) prior to selection of the alternative route. The Midwestern Radioactive Materials Transportation Committee is an appropriate forum for addressing any interstate disagreements. Proposed changes to selected routes should be presented to all potentially affected states in a timely manner for their review and consideration. If the shipper consults with the U.S. Federal Railroad Association (FRA) regarding potential rail routes, the shipper should also seek the input of representatives of the state rail safety programs in the potential corridor states (see Appendix C). All highway shipments should be treated as HRCQ shipments as a matter of policy. Additionally, DOT regulations require motor carriers to use only preferred routes that minimize time in transit (49 CFR 397.101). (See Appendix C for information on state routing contacts.) As requested, CSG Midwest will assist states that seek to designate preferred routes. There are applications available to assist in the identification of routes. For federal, State, Tribal, or local government staff for government purposes, and for DOE-authorized activities, there is the Stakeholder Tool for Assessing Radioactive Transportation (START). START is a web-based, geographic information system (GIS) tool developed by the DOE Office of Integrated Waste Management to visualize and analyze data related to possible shipments of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. START users can explore options for rail, truck, barge, and intermodal shipping routes and make adjustments based on various criteria. For example, users can determine routes that minimize time in transit, minimize population exposure, or avoid entire population centers or important locations. Additionally, users can view dozens of data layers showing the locations of fire departments, hospitals, Tribal lands, airports, etc. For more
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