Perfect sense.

That’s the phrase that comes to mind when we think about the idea of an intermodal terminal being built near where the Union Pacific’s Spine Line crosses Interstate 90 less than a mile from the freeway’s junction with Interstate 35.

Frankly, Minnesota — not just Albert Lea — is fortunate to have the intersection of two major U.S. freeways with so much available countryside nearby — no traffic tie-ups, no beltways, no aimless sprawl. It’s a logistical dream, and it happens to be so close to:

• A major north-south rail route.

• A recently expanded municipal airport.

Intermodal facilities allow for the speedy transfer of semitrailers onto rail cars and vice versa. Freight train schedulers prefer to have them stop where many cars can be loaded and arranged, rather than making many small stops. In other words, an intermodal terminal could prompt trains to stop in or near Albert Lea more frequently. This would make Albert Lea appealing to companies needing to ship in many directions.

Minnesota has two intermodal yards: St. Paul and Dilworth. The closest intermodal yards outside the state are in Des Moines and Council Bluffs, Iowa; Chicago and Joliet, Ill.; Omaha, Neb.; Minot, N.D. and St. Louis and Kansas City, Mo.

The idea is in the early discussion phase between officials with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Albert Lea area; however, it is one the could have economic benefits for the region.