Case Study 2:
High Speed Rail for America
President Obama on High Speed Rail for America (YouTube)
| Summary: High-speed rail is a type of passenger rail transport that runs significantly faster than normal passenger rail. There isn't a universal definition for how fast a rail must be to be considered high speed. European Union specifies 200 km/h (125 mph) and faster. Over 90 mph (145 km/h) is considered as the American standard for HSR. Also the speed could be constrained for technical or geographical reasons. Due to its high speed, high efficiency, low environmental impacts and its potential economic and social benefits, high-speed rail is very popular in Europe and some Asian countries. As a part of the Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, being signed into law by President Obama in 2009, high-speed rail became a hot topic in the among public. Debate and report on high-speed rail are increasing among the media, the government officials, and the public. In this case study, we reviewed the history and current status of high speed rail development in America, and checked the international experience in Europe and Japan. Then we investigated its impact on society, the economy, and natural environment. We discussed the policy issues related to this topic, from the government, the private, and the public perspectives. Is the high-speed rail really good for America? After reviewing this case, we hope you could develop your own opinion. |
Photo Courtesy of the Federal Railroad Administration
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Case Prepared By: Nicklaus Ollrich Brandon Klukow Zhiyi Xu CE 5212/PA 5232: Transportation Policy, Planning, and Deployment |
Other Readings |
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Federal Railroad Administration (High Speed Rail) The United States Department of Transportation: Federal Railroad Administration's site on High Speed Rail provides information and a link to the High Speed Rail Strategic Plan. |
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International High Speed Rail Systems pgs. 111-225 This document presents International High Speed Rail Systems and provides examples. It is in a slide format. |
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Cost analysis of High Speed Rail This document evaluates the costs of HSR and compares them to other modes in the Califonia Corridor. |
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This is an article from the Wall Street Journal that outlines the High Speed Rail Plan. |
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Vision for High Speed Rail in America FAQ Sheet This is a set of frequently asked questions and responses to those questions by the DOT. |
