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.

Vallejo, California, is a vibrant city located in Solano County, just north of San Francisco. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, Vallejo has played a significant role in the transportation industry, particularly in regards to freight. The city's strategic location on the Carquinez Strait made it an ideal hub for shipping goods by both land and sea.

One of Vallejo's most notable contributions to freight transportation is its historic Mare Island Naval Shipyard. Established in 1854, Mare Island quickly became one of the most important shipbuilding facilities on the West Coast. During its peak, the shipyard employed over 46,000 workers and was responsible for constructing and repairing numerous naval vessels, including battleships, cruisers, and submarines. The shipyard played a crucial role in supporting the U.S. Navy's operations during World War II and the Cold War. Although the shipyard closed in 1996, its legacy as a key player in the freight transportation industry lives on.