Some selected maps and tables are presented in this section to show Marion County's transportation and infrastructure system. The largest increase in arterial street traffic is in northeastern Marion County, one of the most densely populated residential areas. Arterial street traffic growth has also increased dramatically in the western, southern, and eastern suburban areas, generally outside of the I-465 loop. Indianapolis is well positioned as a distribution center. The one-day distribution area for Indianapolis includes the major cities of Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and includes the entire state of Kentucky.
International markets are an increasing source for exports.
The total value is expected to increase with the strongest growth in the air and rail modes of transportation. The demand for long-haul transportation services is increasing as Indianapolis firms serve more national and international markets. The demand for transportation services by the manufacturing sector has not decreased proportionately with the decline in manufacturing employment because of productivity gains, increased specialization, and increased outsourcing of component production. The progressive change in inbound shipments from bulk raw materials to components has shifted transportation needs from rail to truck for many firms. The shift in final products toward lighter manufacturing and high tech goods has increased the demand for truck and air transportation.