I don’t really have a problem with high-speed rail. I enjoy traveling by train and have fond memories of doing so in my youth. That being said, it is not a Federal responsibility and it should be able to stand on its own in the marketplace.
I do favor the Federal government establishing a high speed rail standard for the 50 states (57 if you’re Obama) as is their role under Article I Section 8. At least with a federal standard, if states decided to link up their high speed rail networks, they would already be compatible.
Beyond that, it’s an issue for State government and the taxpaying residents of that state. There may be some regions where high speed rail makes sense but those decisions should be made at the State level where the elected officials are closer to the people. Moreover, residents of a state and their state representatives are better equipped to make decisions based on the unique attributes of their state.
Shoehorning states into high speed rail by the federal government is a recipe for waste and disaster — a national “Big Dig”.
That being said, it is not a Federal responsibility and it should be able to stand on its own in the marketplace.
I do favor the Federal government establishing a high speed rail standard for the 50 states (57 if you’re Obama) as is their role under Article I Section 8. At least with a federal standard, if states decided to link up their high speed rail networks, they would already be compatible.
I am very close to agreeing with your view.
I do, however, believe that there is a legitimate federal role in providing funding for acquiring rights-of-way and constructing the railway track and infrastructure. In most cases, the private sector would be more efficient at operating the vehicles and rolling stock that travel on that infrastructure.
This model would be more consistant with how we fund our airways, highways and navigable waterways.
Sorry I shouldn’t pay to bring back your memories..