FR 2021-03615

The document published in the Federal Register provides a notice from the Surface Transportation Board (STB) regarding a request by the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program to access specific data from the 2018-2019 Masked Carload Waybill Sample. This data includes confidential information from railroads and shippers, and the STB outlines the process for objections to this data usage.

Summary of the Document

The notice informs the public that the STB has received a request for data usage from the 2018-2019 Masked Carload Waybill Sample, which contains confidential transportation data. Stakeholders or interested parties who object to the release of this data must file their objections within 14 calendar days. The procedures governing the release of such data are described under 49 CFR 1244.9.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from this notice:

1. Lack of Specificity on Data Usage: The notice does not specify what particular data is being requested or the intended use by the requesting entity. This lack of transparency may concern stakeholders who wish to understand the purpose and implications of the data's release.

2. Objection Process Clarity: The document does not elaborate on how objections will be processed or resolved. This leaves uncertainty for parties who may wish to challenge the release of such sensitive data.

3. Use of Outdated Data: The request is for data from 2018-2019, which raises questions regarding why more recent data is not being used. This could affect the relevance and reliability of any findings based on older data.

4. Privacy and Confidentiality Concerns: The implications for privacy and confidentiality are not discussed, leaving gaps in understanding the potential impact on the stakeholders whose data is being disclosed.

5. Access to Request Documentation: The notice fails to provide clear instructions on how to access the full request documents apart from indicating a docket number, potentially hindering transparency.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Public Impact: For the general public, this notice signifies ongoing efforts by various organizations to improve transportation efficiency through data analysis. However, there is a concern about transparency and privacy in handling sensitive data.

Stakeholder Impact:

• Railroads and Shippers: These parties have a vested interest in preserving the confidentiality of their data, as its release could have commercial or strategic implications.

• Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program: If granted access, this organization might use the data positively to enhance transportation efficiency and aid environmental progress. However, without clarity on the data's application, stakeholders remain apprehensive about potential misuse or mishandling.

In conclusion, while the notice communicates a straightforward request from a transportation program, it raises significant concerns regarding data specificity, handling of objections, relevance of the data, and the protection of confidential information. Improved transparency and clarity in these areas would be beneficial to both the public and affected stakeholders.