Port of New Orleans CEO Christian named to federal transportation advisory council

Port of New Orleans President and Chief Executive Brandy Christian has been appointed to the Railroad-Shipper Transportation Advisory Council (RSTAC).

The 15-member Council was created by statute under the Surface Transportation Board and provides advice on regulatory, policy and legislative matters to the Board Members, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on railroad-transportation policy issues.

Its 15 members are appointed by the STB Chairman; Anne Begeman has been serving as Acting Chairman. RSTAC comprises senior officials representing large and small shippers, and large and small railroads. In addition, the DOT Secretary and each STB member serve as ex-officio members.

Christian’s appointment comes after the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans recently approved a resolution to begin negotiations with the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad and the City of New Orleans to acquire the short line railroad.

“It is an honor to contribute maritime industry insight from a port’s perspective on railroads and the shipping community while representing New Orleans and the Gulf region,” said Christian. “I look forward to working with the board members and council members to develop the best practices to benefit all rail and shipping partners involved.”

RSTAC focuses on issues of importance to small shippers and small railroads, including railcar supply, rates, competition and procedures for addressing claims. RSTAC develops private-sector mechanisms to identify, address, and prevent obstacles to effective and efficient interstate transportation. RSTAC also prepares an annual report concerning its activities and recommendations on regulatory or legislative relief it considers appropriate.

After two years as operating officer, Christian in January took over the top job at the port from longtime chief Gary LaGrange.