Post by: Rick Harnish, Executive Director Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was interviewed by former Secretary Ray LaHood in front of a standing-room-only crowd at the US High Speed Rail Conference this week. I left the event motivated by knowing that Sec....
Trains are a great way to travel
Imagine it: A breakfast meeting in Chicago, a business lunch in Cleveland, and you’re back home in time for dinner. No security lines. No cramped seats. No traffic jams. Just a quick, comfortable ride that saves you time and money.
Trains are Reliable and Stress Free
On a fast train, you can get where you’re going while working, eating, socializing, having a drink, taking a nap—whatever. Your time is yours.
With high-speed rail, train travel is always faster than driving. In many cases, it’s even faster than flying, once you factor in the whole air travel song-and-dance. And if you do need to catch a plane, trains make it easier to get to the airport.
Trains are the Smart, Fast Way to Travel
Here’s just one example of a trip begging for high-speed rail: Chicago to Minneapolis.
A high-speed train would be three times faster than driving—2.5 hours vs. 7.5 hours.
Sure, you could fly, but once you factor in traveling to the airport, going through security, and sitting on a taxiway, the high-speed train is still faster.
It would also be cheaper. A lot cheaper. That high-speed train ticket would cost about $75, compared to more than $200 to fly or drive.
Trains Give You Time, Space and Options
The best-kept secret about trains is that they’re fun. Your time is your time.
Modern trains make travel better than ever, offering spaces that are tailored to different needs and different types of trips. Coach and first-class cars include several seats that face a table, making it easier to get work done or have a meeting. Power outlets and Wi-Fi are available throughout, and some train designs include private lounges or conference rooms, as well as special play areas for kids.
Overhead shelves let you keep your bags nearby, while racks near the doors are a better place to leave larger items. Bicycles roll right on and are secured in special holders, so you can take them on and off without any special attention. Cafe cars offer a place to grab a quick bite or a drink, while a more formal dining car serves full-service meals.
Learn more about the comfort, flexibility and safety of modern train designs
Trains Make it Easier to Get to Planes
Sometimes, you have to fly. And when you do, getting to the airport is often a struggle. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Around the world, major airports have train stations right next to the terminals, creating direct connections to regional destinations via fast trains.
Next time, instead of a long, expensive car ride to the airport—or cramming into a regional jet to reach your long-haul flight—imagine taking a fast, comfortable train instead.
Learn more about our ideas to connect high-speed trains to O’Hare International
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