Why are there no high speed trains in North America?

High‐​speed rail is an obsolete technology because it requires expensive and dedicated infrastructure that will serve no purpose other than moving passengers who could more economically travel by highway or air.

Is there a railroad that goes across the US?

Amtrak and VIA Rail’s most famed train routes traverse the US—and Canada—to transport travelers through vast, varied landscapes, small towns, bustling metropolises, jaw-dropping scenery, national parks, and the most exciting stopping points. A train trip across North America means something different to everyone.

Why doesn’t the US have a high-speed rail network?

Basically, high-speed rail is an existential threat to big oil’s market dominance, so whenever a project gains momentum, they pour billions of dollars into lobbyists, propaganda, paid politicians, and the Reason Foundation. That’s the main reason the U.S. has no high-speed rail network, and this problem won’t go away easily.

Is California’s high-speed rail a good example for the nation?

California’s high-speed rail progress—its proposed San Francisco-to-Los Angeles line remains the only truly fast train project in the country—is the exception that proves the rule; that state’s size makes it no example for the rest of the nation.

When will America’s first high-speed rail be built?

California’s smaller train line, which would become America’s first high-speed rail service, could be completed by 2029. “While a long, slow train ride across the country can be a great thing, the US needs real high-speed rail too.

Which countries are building the most high-speed rail systems?

A series of high-speed rail systems connect Europe’s major cities. China has poured enormous sums into developing the world’s most extensive high-speed rail network — with more than 23,000 miles of track and trains that top out at 267 mph.