Helena, Montana, is the capital city of the state and is located in the western part of the state. The city was founded as a gold camp during the Montana gold rush in 1864. The discovery of gold in Last Chance Gulch brought thousands of prospectors to the area, leading to the rapid growth of the city. Helena was named after a nearby mountain by a group of four miners who struck it rich in the area. The city's economy was initially driven by mining, but it later diversified into agriculture, timber, and government services.

Helena has a rich history in transportation, particularly in the railroad industry. The city was a major hub for the Northern Pacific Railway, which played a crucial role in the development of the region. The railroad connected Helena to other major cities in the west, facilitating the transportation of goods and people. Today, Helena is still an important transportation center, with a network of highways and railways that serve as vital links for freight transportation in the region. The city's strategic location between major metropolitan areas makes it a key point for the movement of goods and commodities.

Pontiac is a city located in Oakland County, Michigan, and is known for its rich automotive history. The city was named after Chief Pontiac, an Ottawa leader who became famous for his role in Pontiac's Rebellion against British military occupation of the Great Lakes region. Pontiac was incorporated as a city in 1861 and quickly became a major hub for the automotive industry.

During the early 20th century, Pontiac was home to several automobile manufacturing plants, including the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors. The city played a significant role in the development of the automobile industry and was known for producing iconic vehicles such as the Pontiac GTO. The automotive industry brought prosperity to Pontiac, attracting workers from all over the country and contributing to the city's growth.

Freight transportation has been crucial to Pontiac's economy, with its proximity to major highways and railways. The city is located near Interstate 75, which connects it to Detroit and other major cities in the region. Additionally, Pontiac is served by the Canadian National Railway, providing a direct connection to Canada and facilitating the transportation of goods and materials. The city's transportation infrastructure has played a vital role in supporting the automotive industry and continues to be an important factor in its economic development.