High-Speed Rail

High-speed rail could change the way our nation travels, and it's getting closer and closer to becoming a reality

The Future of Train Travel
Next-generation high-speed rail could be developed in the U.S. with sustained speeds of up to 220 mph (354kph). That means passengers could travel between Washington, D.C. and Boston in 3 hours, or between Los Angeles and San Francisco in 2 hours, 40 minutes. Faster speeds would allow for an increase in the frequency of trains, helping get travelers to their destinations quickly, safely and efficiently. High-speed rail has the power to revolutionize transportation, travel patterns and economic development across the U.S. And it's a vision for the future that is realistic and attainable.

Amtrak's Vital Role
As America's intercity passenger rail service provider and only high-speed rail operator, Amtrak will play a crucial role in expanding and operating high-speed rail service. Creating financially viable high-speed rail networks would benefit the traveling public by providing greater convenience and flexibility. The investment would also bolster the surrounding regions' competitive advantage and stimulate economic growth.

Demand for High-Speed Rail
Building faster rail networks has become not only desirable, but also necessary. Many leading countries throughout Europe and Asia are aggressively developing and expanding their high-speed rail systems, while the U.S. lags behind. In order to compete, America too must implement these networks across its major travel corridors. Of course, the specifics of high-speed rail needs are still being discussed and will continue to evolve. Still, the existing information clearly shows that high-speed rail is crucial to America's continued prosperity and must be part of the national discussion. Amtrak is excited to embark on this journey and begin turning its vision of widespread high-speed rail into reality.

Benefits of High-Speed Rail:

  • Creates jobs
  • Reduces emissions
  • Saves time
  • Operates cost-effectively

Find out more about current high-speed rail projects in America.