The National Proposal

Goal: 

A network of high-performance trains connecting at least 80 percent of Americans within 25 years.


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Tiers of Service

Core Express:  25% to 30% of the network would be electrified trains operating at 125 mph to 250 mph on track dedicated to passenger trains serving roughly 60% of the population.

Regional: 50% of the network would be electrified or diesel trains operating at 90 mph to 125 mph on a mix of dedicated tracks and tracks shared freight trains.

Emerging: 20% to 25% of the network would served by trains traveling up to 90 mph on track shared by freight trains.

President Obama has requested $8 billion be appropriated in 2012 for the High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail Program.  Half would be spent on high-speed rail and system expansion.  Half would be spent on modernizing the existing Amtrak service.

The minimum acceptable appropriation is $2.5 billion for high-speed rail and $2.25 billion to maintain existing Amtrak service.


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Take Action
 
There is an ongoing debate in Congress concerning the future of transportation in the United States - a debate that will determine whether we choose to invest in a world-class transportation system, or continue down our current path, which serves no one's best interest.
 
Since its inception, the High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail program has seen 39 states apply for funds, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs. Unfortunately, just as passenger rail projects are generating economic growth across the country, these successful programs are under attack. We need your help to protect these important investments in America's future.
 
The U.S. is at an economic crossroads in which it is vital to address our long-term stability, while spurring short-term economic growth. This requires a set of responsible national priorities that do two things – create jobs and bolster economic growth. A high-speed rail network that connects our regional economies, our businesses and our workers is a national priority that is worth fighting for. Good transportation is a human and economic need, not something to be turned into a political issue.
 
We need your help to send a message to Washington that Americans need and want a stronger national passenger rail system. Please send a message to your elected officials and ask them to support funding for Amtrak modernization and the HSIPR program.
 
Input your zip-code below to get your elected officials' contact information, give them a call, and then send a follow-up email.

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The Midwest High Speed Rail Association can be reached at 773-334-6758 or Mark@MidwestHSR.org.