FROM THE NEWS DESK...

Sault Ste. Marie is still planning on becoming a transportation hub, according to reports earlier this week. Phil Becker of the Joint International Bridge Authority said that although truck traffic has tapered off recently, the potential for increased capacity and the multimodal strategy of Sault Ontario has the Bridge Authority planning for the future.

Plus, FTR Associates reported that their Shippers' Condition Index stayed flat into June, adding that the reading shows the "inability of carriers to increase rates in what is truning out to be a disappointing economic recovery."

That and more at Today's Trucking.com.

Sault Ste. Marie Still Wants to be Transport Hub

SAULT STE. MARIE — Plans to develop Sault Ste. Marie as a regional transportation hub have the potential to increase commercial traffic in the area and the Joint Bridge Authority is planning for the future.

Shippers Index Neutral, Slow Growth in Freight Demand

Nashville, IN — Weak economic growth is leading to very slow growth in freight demand, says FTR. Carriers are staying disciplined.

Technician Killed on the Job in New Brunswick

GRAND FALLS, NB — Heavy-duty truck technician died on the job while working on a truck in Grand Falls, New Brunswick.

Canada-New England Trade Should Improve, Lefebvre

CONCORD — Speed and volume of trade between Canada and New Hampshire needs to be increased, said leaders from both sides of the border at a meeting on Aug. 13.

Great Dane’s New Sales and Branch Operations Structure

SAVANNA, GA— Grate Dane made Jon Jeffries its new general sales manager and extended Dave Durand’s position as VP aftermarket in their new sales and branch operation structure.

BCTA’s Project on Drayage Owner-Operators Business

VANCOUVER— The B.C. Trucking Association launched a new project in hopes to better understand the drayage owner-operator business and help Vancouver’s owner-operators maximize their profit.

BLOG: The Automatic Choice for Learners

Automatic transmissions are good for the industry, writes Steve Rock, but if you don't know how to use a stick, then your licence should be restricted.

Study says RSC Systems Better, Less Expensive Than ESC

ARLINGTON, VA. — Contrary to other studies, RSC technology is better and less expensive than ESC technology says a report. What this means for mandating ESC technology is unknown.