December 30, 2014: Highway deaths down 25% in 10 years; Reducing road deicing chemical use; Port squabble fuels air freight spike in Seattle.

Here is a look at what is happening in the world of transportation this morning:

• Edmunds.com notes that recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates highway deaths are down 25% since 2004.
• Oil prices are hitting a five-and-a-half year low due to a global supply glut, according to Reuters, helping hold down U.S. fuel prices.
• As a result of plummeting oil prices, stock markets in the Persian Gulf are suffering declines, reports the Wall Street Journal.
• Alaska may extend the deadline for its natural gas truck fuel project, notes the Fairbanks Daily News Miner.
• According to the Yakima Herald-Republic, researchers at Washington State University are trying to figure out how to keep roadways clear in winter with reduced levels of salt and other deicing chemicals.
• Chrysler is recalling 67,000 older Dodge and Ram pickups with manual transmissions due to a clutch issue, reports Oregon Live.
• Delays due to labor strife at Seattle’s port are driving up air freight volumes at the Emerald city’s airport, according to the Puget Sound Business Journal.
• An automotive parts supplier for automaker Kia is building a huge new logistics depot in the U.S., notes the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.
• Connecticut may face higher toll road rates if highway work expenses keep rising, reports the Hartford Courant.