A Bold Vision for the Future
With the growing popularity of passenger rail for short and medium range distances, up to 750 miles, many advocates see the multiple advantages to being part of a regional network that interfaces with a national network. Studies indicate passenger rail connections are a significant economic generator for a community, new jobs in construction as new businesses and industries come, increased employment opportunities, along with professional, business, cultural and sports trips to Chicago. Tourism specialists report the Tri-States is a popular tourist area. Our area educational institutions attract many Chicago-land students.
Economic studies indicate a high-speed intercity passenger rail system serving the Midwest as envisioned by the accompanying map has a $30 billion annual impact.
