The US is Finally Hopping on the High-Speed Train

Europe, Japan, and China have revolutionized public transportation by developing a high-speed train system used by millions. After years of whispers and rumors, the US is finally following in their stead. On the west coast construction of two railways has commenced. One route will be between Las Vegas and Los Angeles and is considered an easy route as it is mostly flat land. The other project is a railroad between San Francisco and Los Angeles and will be more difficult due to the mountainous terrain. They also plan to implement a rail line that connects Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver. Discussions of building a route between Dallas and Houston are being held, however, Trump canceled a 64-million-dollar grant which will interfere with these plans. There are varying reactions from the public, other complications arise from government affiliation and the fact that these high-speed rail lines can only be constructed in areas where there are no crossings or intersections of highways. This limits the locations where they can be constructed. In the northeast discussions of implementing a 160 mile per hour train between Boston and Washington DC have taken place. It is not considered high speed however it is a step closer to expanding America’s public transportation capabilities. On the bright side, the addition of high-speed rail lines will offer contractors a plethora of new job opportunities. High-speed rails will also positively impact the environment by reducing greenhouse emissions, maintaining urban development, and decreasing air pollution.