Amtrak CEO Forced Out This week, Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner abruptly resigned from his position, saying it was “to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration.” Read More: The Amtrak Chief Executive Abruptly Resigned From...
Newsletter 2/7/25: New Bills Call for Doubling Amtrak Cascades Service
New Bills Call for Doubling Amtrak Cascades Service
This week bills for improving intercity passenger rail were filed in the Washington State Legislature. The bills would establish goals for cutting travel time, increasing daily roundtrips, and boosting on-time performance between Vancouver, Seattle, and Portland. The Rail Can’t Wait Campaign and other climate groups in Washington worked to introduce this legislation.
The Cascadia region is growing rapidly and the current Amtrak Cascades line is dramatically under-utilized. Improving the frequency and speed of service on the line is critical to the entire region’s economic vitality, sustainability, and livability.
Upgrading service on the Cascades now will also build support – and ridership –for the long-term goal of a high-speed line from Portland to Vancouver.
Read More
State Lawmakers Chart Path to Double Amtrak Cascades Service
California High Speed Rail Is Under Attack
During a press conference on February 4, Donald Trump made wild criticisms of California high-speed rail. If you want this project to succeed, it’s time to speak up.
California has the best state rail plan in the United States. By 2050, the state is working for world-class train and transit service. High frequency and high speed will make these options more convenient, more appealing, and more affordable than driving or flying. It’s a fantastic plan, and other states should aim this high too.
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How Crippling Traffic Led One State to Find Its Own Transportation Solutions
DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, shares 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.
Watch the Video
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.
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!
Amtrak Outlines 2025 Plans at AASHTO Rail Meeting
High-Speed Rail From Pittsburgh Is Possible, Says Rep. Deluzio
Thailand’s Government Approves High-Speed Railway Construction Project
California High Speed Rail Authority Refutes President Trump’s Investigation Threats
Is Vegas to SoCal High-Speed Rail Project on Track?
Ted Cruz Says He’s Investigating California’s High-Speed Rail; This Is What He’s Done
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