America Has Never Built an Airport Express Railway. Chicago Is About to Try. Nearly everyone agrees that there should be fast trains between downtown Chicago and O’Hare International Airport. The sticking point has always been how to make it happen: where the line...
Newsletter 3/13/26: The Future of Amtrak Funding
A Case for More Predictable Intercity Passenger Rail Funding (Video)
When the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act expires in September 2026, federal funding for intercity passenger rail will be at risk of returning to its former, unstable model.
In her recent paper, “Looking Down the Tracks: A Case for More Predictable Intercity Passenger Rail Funding”, Rebecca Higgins argues for the adoption of a long-term federal funding strategy.
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The Passenger Rail Planning Act of Illinois (Video)
State Representative Rita Mayfield recently spoke at the Illinois Capitol in Springfield to champion the Passenger Rail Planning Act. This bill, currently in the Illinois General Assembly, would help advance frequent passenger rail service throughout the state. It would also encourage surrounding states to follow, thus creating the foundation for a transformative regional rail network connecting the Midwest.
The Gulf Coast Passenger Rail Renaissance
When: Friday, March 27 at 12pm CT
Speaker: Knox Ross, chairman, Southern Rail Commission
Trains are making a comeback in the Deep South.
In August 2025, the Mardi Gras Service brought back Amtrak between Mobile, Alabama and New Orleans after a 20-year absence incited by Hurricane Katrina.
We invite you to join us and Chairman Knox Ross to learn more about this unique organization, how the Mardi Gras Service came to be, and what lies ahead for great trains along the Gulf Coast.
A European High-Speed Rail Action Plan
When: Wednesday, April 1 at 10am CT
Speaker: Blaž Pongračič, senior policy advisor, Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER)
High-speed rail is the definitive backbone of Europe’s future mobility and climate strategy.
However, its full potential is restricted by a fragmented landscape of national planning, high investment costs, and significant cross-border operational barriers. These technical and financial constraints, alongside capacity limitations, prevent the railways from becoming a truly seamless international transport mode that can compete effectively on a continental scale.
Blaž Pongračič from the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) joins us to outline the proposed European High-Speed Rail Action Plan, which advocates for a coordinated, EU-wide approach to infrastructure and investment. This webinar will focus on the necessity of strengthening interoperability, accelerating digitalization, and improving the overall passenger experience to ensure territorial cohesion.
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