We've written a good deal this year about the Midwest high-speed rail (HSR) network being pushed by regional governors, as well as congressional leaders like Sen. Dick Durbin. The plan largely hinges on snagging a decent chunk of the $8 billion set aside for HSR as part of President Obama's stimulus package. The Tribune is reporting some good news on this front: Vice President Joe Biden -- a longtime Amtrak fan -- appeared to suggest on a conference call yesterday that the project could potentially receive over $3 billion in stimulus funds:
Vice President Joe Biden lauded the Midwest proposal, which envisions passenger trains speeding through the region at 110 m.p.h., as "one of the most comprehensive plans that have been put forward so far."
The full 3,000-mile Midwest corridor system stretching over nine states would cost $9.6 billion to construct over 10 years, according to the latest estimate.
But "for $3.4 billion, you can get a big chunk of this plan done," Biden said in a conference call with reporters.
The article goes on to note that Gov. Quinn has "announced plans for a July summit of Midwest governors to address high-speed rail in Chicago."
Image courtesy of the New York Times.
Comments
Ellen Beth (not verified) on Thu, 06/04/2009 - 19:01
Just a question. Why don't they go for broke and connect the east coast with the midwest somewhere in Ohio?
Mike Skehan (not verified) on Fri, 06/05/2009 - 06:01
VP Biden certainly knows what he's talking about when discussing High Speed Rail. It's the future of travel in America when fuel starts its inevitable climb as oil supplies dwindle. Trains get far better mileage per passenger mile than both cars and planes, while contributing far less to green house gas emission.
As alternate energy sources are developed, most will generate electricity. Trains can be electrified quite easily. Try plugging in a 737 flying from STL to ORD, or converting our auto and truck fleet to electric anytime soon.
WA and OR began deploying tilt trains in the Pacific NW Corridor, capable of 125 mph a decade ago. Track and signal improvements allow our fast trains to finally go faster than 79 mph, and bypasses around congested freight yards get us the speed needed to make trains a logical choice between Vancouver BC, and Eugene OR.
Mike Skehan, Member, All Aboard Washington
Josh Kalven on Fri, 06/05/2009 - 06:18
@Ellen
That map represents all the corridors being considered for the $8 billion in stimulus money. But that's not enough funds to cover them all. So what you're probably going to see is a more bare-bones "network" on each coast and in the Midwest. Here's a better map of what the Midwest portion will look like:
http://www.progressillinois.com/2009/4/15/midwestern-guvs-push-for-hsr-f...
Hopefully it will be connected to the East Coast eventually. Would certainly make sense.
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