The potential of high-speed rail in the United States has piqued the interest of an Illinois congressman, who is calling for the construction of a new line between Chicago and St. Louis.
The pairing of the Illinois and Missouri cities could provide a low-pollution travel option that would also allow for faster journeys.
Speaking to The Chicago Tribune, as Newsweek reported, Representative Mike Quigley believes a journey that would typically take around five hours in the car could be completed in around half the time if the investment in transportation infrastructure is made.
"Two and a half hours," Quigley wrote in the Tribune. "That is how quickly one could travel from Chicago to St. Louis with new high-speed rail infrastructure. That could cut travel time nearly in half from current levels, saving millions of riders something money can't often buy: time."
The United States is lagging behind many nations when it comes to high-speed rail options. Since this method of transportation is far better for the environment than dirty-fuel-powered cars and short-haul flights, there is a sense of urgency to fully embrace this technology to reduce pollution that is causing temperatures to rise worldwide.
In addition to producing significantly less planet-warming pollution than gas-guzzling cars and aviation-fuel-reliant planes, high-speed rail is much more efficient for passengers. Boarding and disembarking from trains is much easier than going through notoriously time-consuming airport security.
Can't afford solar panels? Here's how to get them without paying for purchase or installation Palmetto's revolutionary LightReach program gives you all the benefits of solar power without the upfront costs. LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it easier than ever to lock in energy savings. Palmetto assumes all risk and responsibility for the panels you lease, which means you'll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs. To get started, just answer a few basic questions about your home and learn how much you can save. Learn more → |
Additionally, using a laptop or reading while riding the train is a welcome use of time for some train travelers, which isn't possible when behind the wheel of a car.
"The Midwest has a number of major cities all within a day's drive, providing an excellent geographic canvas for the building of an effective passenger rail network," Quigley continued.
"This network could connect people and economies in a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly way. To achieve this, we must take the steps now to invest in a high-speed rail future while making improvements to our current passenger rail network."
The Brightline high-speed rail service in Florida has already won fans, transporting over 2 million passengers in 2023 alone.
TCD Picks » REI Spotlight
💡 REI's Re/Supply program makes it easy for REI Co-op members to shop and trade in high-quality used gear and apparel for massive discounts
That success is hoped to be replicated in the West, with ground broken on a new high-speed line between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet.
Cool Picks
