01-30-2010, 07:06 PM
^
What you don't expect the same security headache on a high speed train?
It's a complete waste of money. I agree with Bill on subsidizing freight rail for hauls over 150 miles to get trucks off the road and then work at getting those trucks to run off clean energy for the short haul from the rail lines. UPS is already partway there with alternative fuel trucks and others need to join in.
Further, the auto-train idea could be expanded and cheapened for passenger vehicles. Set up hubs near (but not in) centrally located major cities for those trains hauling cars /passengers. Off the top of my head I think hubs could be Springfield, Mass (serving Boston & NYC); Balitome (philly, DC); Atlanta; Cleveland; South Bend, IN; Memphis, Kansas City; Austin, TX, Denver, Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Spokane, Tacoma; Fresno, CA (san Fran and LA. All are just a few hours drive from most of the population.
Price the ride near airline cost plus $100 for car (put most luggage in it.)
I know I'd be happy to have my car with me instead of dealing with rentals.
What you don't expect the same security headache on a high speed train?
It's a complete waste of money. I agree with Bill on subsidizing freight rail for hauls over 150 miles to get trucks off the road and then work at getting those trucks to run off clean energy for the short haul from the rail lines. UPS is already partway there with alternative fuel trucks and others need to join in.
Further, the auto-train idea could be expanded and cheapened for passenger vehicles. Set up hubs near (but not in) centrally located major cities for those trains hauling cars /passengers. Off the top of my head I think hubs could be Springfield, Mass (serving Boston & NYC); Balitome (philly, DC); Atlanta; Cleveland; South Bend, IN; Memphis, Kansas City; Austin, TX, Denver, Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Spokane, Tacoma; Fresno, CA (san Fran and LA. All are just a few hours drive from most of the population.
Price the ride near airline cost plus $100 for car (put most luggage in it.)
I know I'd be happy to have my car with me instead of dealing with rentals.