The United States was once a world leader in passenger rail, providing efficient connections across the country. But over the years, we’ve focused almost entirely on expanding highways, leaving many Americans without strong public transportation options. Today, as our cities struggle with worsening congestion and car ownership costs rise, we are faced with an urgent need for change. High-quality passenger rail can offer a practical solution that strengthens our economy, improves quality of life, and provides freedom of choice for all travelers.
Why Passenger Rail Matters:
Boosting the Economy: Investing in passenger rail creates thousands of jobs in construction, maintenance, and service sectors. By connecting communities, rail systems support local businesses and make commuting more affordable for families. Reducing dependency on highways also means fewer costly repairs and expansions—saving taxpayer dollars in the long term.
Environmental Responsibility with Economic Sense: Rail is one of the most energy-efficient ways to travel. It produces lower emissions per mile than cars and planes, and when powered by renewable sources, can help the U.S. meet its sustainability goals without sacrificing economic growth.
Enhancing Quality of Life for All: Reliable public transit makes cities more livable, reducing commute times and traffic noise in urban areas. Rail also frees up income for families who no longer need to rely on car ownership for every daily task. And for those who prefer driving, more people choosing rail means less congestion on the roads, creating a better experience for all travelers.
Keeping America Competitive: Countries like Germany, Japan, and China already enjoy fast, efficient rail networks that connect entire regions. If the U.S. is to remain globally competitive, we must modernize our transportation systems to ensure affordable, efficient travel for everyone.
Proposed Actions:
Federal Investment in Rail Infrastructure: Provide funds to develop and maintain a high-speed rail network connecting major cities and expanding regional rail services. By working with state governments and private companies, we can create a comprehensive, efficient rail system.
Support for Transit-Oriented Development: Encourage mixed-use, walkable communities around rail stations to support local economies and create easy access to essential services. Such policies benefit drivers, too, by easing road congestion and allowing towns to grow sustainably.
Reevaluate Federal Transportation Funding: Focus funding on sustainable transportation solutions, like rail, that reduce the need for costly highway expansions. Shifting priorities will create long-term cost savings while enhancing Americans’ options for getting around.
Expanding passenger rail service in the U.S. offers benefits that align with American values—economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and improved quality of life. By building a world-class rail network, we can create a future where Americans have real transportation choices, support vibrant communities, and regain our position as a global leader in innovative infrastructure.