Western Carolina University studies the possibility of an 'inland port' in Southern Appalachia

The words port and Appalachia might look odd together, but researchers at Western Carolina University say the mountains could be the perfect place for a different kind of port. WCU researchers are studying the possibility of an "inland port" — a transportation hub that would ease the growing strain on traditional seaports, reports the Asheville Citizen-Times.

A port in Southern Appalachia likely would take advantage of nearby rail lines and interstate highways, reports Jordan Schrader. The WNC study, which has won more $250,000 in federal and state money, seeks to find potential sites for an inland port. The study is set to be completed in 2008.

The first inland port was built in northern Virginia, and it has brought 7,000 jobs to the Front Royal area since it opened in the 1980s, members of the Appalachian Regional Commission told Schrader. The commission believes a network of similar ports could have the same economic benefits for Southern Appalachia, Schrader adds. (Read more)