Newsletter 1/31/25: Transportation Agenda for a “Golden Age”

Transportation Agenda for a “Golden Age”

Throughout his campaign, President Trump focused on building the economy by “onshoring” industry and investing in a stronger US manufacturing sector. In his inaugural address, he promised a new “golden age” for America. The administration’s new Secretary of Transportation—Sean Duffy, confirmed by the Senate this week—can help deliver on these promises by leveraging the strong momentum for quality US passenger rail.

Here’s a four-part agenda to make it happen.

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Concept rendering of a Brightline West high-speed train.

Tell Congress to Keep Investing in Great Trains

On January 20, the President signed an executive order to “pause” further use of funds approved by Congress in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Since then, confusion has reigned as states, agencies and the courts try to understand subsequent memos and messages from the Administration.

This is a serious threat to maintaining and expanding high-speed and conventional rail service.

Regardless of how this situation plays out, it’s important for you to send a clear message to Congress: keep investing in great trains.

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How California Overcame a Major Barrier to Rail Electrification

Rail electrification with overhead catenary, critical to high speed rail, is an unambiguous positive for the environment. It produces no air pollution at point of source, can be powered entirely by renewable energy, as California High Speed Rail will, and even using California’s current grid emits more than 100x less CO2 per passenger than diesel trains.

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A section of new high-speed line showing the catenary.
A conceptual drawing of a new, open concourse at Chicago Union Station.

In Search of High Speed Rail: Make Trains Sexy Again

Guest post by Jordan Pokorney

This past September, I embarked on a two-week rail vacation across Germany and France. While taking some much-needed time off to celebrate the end of another beautiful summer, I wanted to learn more about the success of high-speed rail in Europe to see what takeaways could be had for those of us here in the United States.

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A map of proposed projects along the Washington, DC - Richmond, VA corridor.

How Crippling Traffic Led One State to Find Its Own Transportation Solutions

When: Friday, February 7 at 12pm CT

DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, will share how Virginia, seeking relief from what had become an “all day rush hour,” turned to rail and found new ways to expand service across the state.

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An artists rendering of a bedroom on a Norwegian night train.

Overnight Sleeper Trains’ Role in America’s Transportation Infrastructure

When: Friday, February 14 at 12pm CT

Dreamstar Lines is reimagining the overnight train experience, blending the nostalgia and romance of classic rail journeys with modern comfort and convenience. This presentation will explore Dreamstar’s vision for a new standard in U.S. night trains, addressing gaps left by current inter-regional services and offering a compelling alternative to air and car travel.

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Tiny HS2 VL 33107 TBM Dorthy ready to launch at Long Inchington Wood Tunnel North Portal

What’s up With Britain’s HS2 High-Speed Rail Project?

When: Friday, February 21 at 12pm CT on Zoom

The UK has long been a world leader in rail infrastructure, and HS2 represents the largest investment in the rail network since the Victorian era.  It is a huge undertaking that brings with it challenges and opportunities. With Phase 1 of the project at peak construction, hear from members of HS2’s Public Affairs team on the latest from the program, the political and communications challenges, and much more!

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The Latest from HSRA

Our Latest Blog Posts

Check out the latest news, updates, and high speed rail insights from our blog!

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Newsletter 2/14/25: Bills to Expand Illinois Railway Program

Newsletter 2/14/25: Bills to Expand Illinois Railway Program

Bills to Expand Illinois Railway Program Announced Illinois has always been at the heart of America’s rail network, and it is uniquely poised to lead the country towards great trains. Because of its political heft and Chicago’s role as the nation’s rail hub, a growing...

Illinois Needs an Integrated Railway Program

Illinois Needs an Integrated Railway Program

Illinois Needs an Integrated Railway Program Great trains will change the way the world sees Illinois   Help make it happenBuilding on Success, Planning for the Future Traveling by train and bus across Illinois should be convenient, comfortable, and affordable....