Hybrid simulation to support interdependence modeling of a multimodal transportation network

The inland waterways in the United States (U.S.) transport approximately 20% of coal, 22% of petroleum products, and 60% of farm exports making these waterways a significant contributor to the U.S. multimodal transportation system. In this study, data of extreme natural events affecting the U.S. inland waterways are collected and used to predict possible occurrences of such events using a spatio-temporal statistical model. A simulation tool incorporating this model is developed to investigate the impact of waterway disruptions on the interconnected multimodal transportation systems. A case study on the lower Mississippi River and the McClellan–Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System along with the related highways is provided to illustrate the use of the simulation tool for operation simulation and interdependence modeling of the multimodal transportation network. This tool provides a flexible means for quickly evaluating the performance of such Interdependent Critical Infrastructures (ICIs) and assisting in decision making.