Intermodal
terminals are the hubs for different transportation modes and can
be separated into two distinct categories: rail freight intermodal
facilities and transit intermodal facilities.
Freight terminals are built to allow the interconnection of shipped
goods between railroad trains, tractor-trailer trucks, and maritime
vessels. Passenger terminals are constructed to provide convenient
interconnections between an even greater variety of transportation
modes: transit rail systems, passenger trains, buses (local and
intercity), private vehicles, and airplanes.
Increased funding for intermodal terminals has resulted in the
construction of new facilities and restoration or expansion of existing
facilities. Whatever the transportation modes involved, modern intermodal
terminals and their facilities are increasingly being constructed
in concrete for the economical and durable facilities that owners
need, the versatility and strength designers want, and the catalyst
for growth and renewal that municipalities desire.