Thrive Hosts Annual State of Freight Forum, Highlighting Innovative Infrastructure Solutions

Cleveland, Tennessee—On August 8, Thrive convened industry leaders, policymakers, and planners at the annual State of Freight Forum, presented by Chattanooga Gas, to spotlight the future of freight and supply chain logistics across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.

As freight volumes surge across the tri-state, the conversation is shifting from “if” to “when” and “how” critical infrastructure solutions will be implemented. This year’s forum focused on forward-looking innovations that could reshape the region’s freight network—making it more efficient, sustainable, and safe.

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“Data tells us that truck-borne freight along I-24 is only projected to increase over the coming years. There is no single solution to our region’s transportation challenges. Thrive is here to support a balanced, forward-looking conversation that reflects both the urgency of freight mobility and the value of long-term planning for resilient infrastructure.” — Shannon Millsaps, Chief Operating Officer, Thrive Regional Partnership

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The event featured a panel discussion, “Transformative Solutions for Regional Freight Mobility,” featuring:

• Moderator: Representative Dan Howell, Chair of the Tennessee House Transportation Committee
• Dan Pallme, Assistant Chief of Freight and Logistics, Tennessee Department of Transportation
• Ira Weiss, Strategic Advisor, Tranco
• Michael Sargent, Senior Advisor, Meridiam

Panelists explored a range of ideas being piloted across the U.S. to address freight safety and efficiency, including:

• Dedicated commercial vehicle lanes
• Privately funded expressways
• Innovative public-private partnerships

A featured presentation from Cleveland State Community College highlighted how the school’s newly developed Logistics & Supply Chain Management program was created in partnership with Thrive using TRIP: the Thrive Regional Infrastructure Portal. All seven students in the program’s first graduating class secured full-time employment by June—a 100% placement rate. By aligning real-world freight data with capstone internships, the program helps students solve problems that directly impact their employers and the region’s logistics economy.

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Thrive’s State of Freight Forum continues to elevate freight and supply chain as a vital economic engine, and position infrastructure as a collaborative opportunity for the region.

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Thrive Regional Partnership (Thrive) is a nonprofit organization that inspires responsible growth through conversation, connection, and collaboration across northeast Alabama, northwest Georgia, and southeast Tennessee. Learn more at www.thriveregionalpartnership.org.