Distribution “In order for food to get from the farm to your table, it has to move through a complex network of warehouses and markets, highways and train stations. During that time, a lot of our food has crisscrossed the country or circled around the globe.” –Speaker Quinn
Goal 6: Improve food distribution in New York City through infrastructure enhancements, technological advances, alternative transportation, and integrated planning. Our current distribution system relies greatly on food trucked long distances into the city. These trucks, consume great amounts of fuel, contribute to green house gas emissions, and degrade our infrastructure. The system overall is energy intensive and considerable contributor to our carbon footprint. The distribution challenges faced within our city are tied to many outside factors, and fully addressing these issues will require us to partner with state and federal stakeholders and the business community. Regional planning is needed to consider optimal transportation routes, as well as infrastructure and warehousing needs. Additionally, addressing the most vital piece of our food system infrastructure, the Hunts Point Distribution Center, will require cross-sector and interagency collaboration. The City Council will pursue the following two strategies for an improved food distribution system.
Strategy: Expand on the current vision for the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center to maximize its potential. Proposals:
• Redevelop the Hunts Point Produce Market.
• Increase rail service through the Hunts Point Distribution Center.
• Transform the Hunts Point Distribution Center into a hub for city wide food system improvement strategies.
Strategy: Diversify and improve food transport. Proposal:
• Identify the optimal distribution routes and modes for food distribution within the region and city.
