In recent years, Americans have expressed a growing preference for a mode of transportation that was once overlooked but is now making a comeback: the train. The results of various surveys show an increasing enthusiasm for train journeys, and with the promise of new rail infrastructure, the mobility landscape could undergo a true transformation. Let’s explore this trend together!
A strong return of the train
Surveys conducted by ENGINE INSIGHTS in 2020 reveal that Americans are increasingly supportive of long-distance train travel. The motivation behind this new passion for the rails is multifaceted: reducing the impact of climate change, avoiding delays mainly caused by heavy traffic in metropolitan areas, and especially escaping the hassles of finding parking spaces. This last point is particularly relevant in large cities, where the search for a parking spot can become a true ordeal.
Rail investments booming
In response to this demand, the U.S. government has announced investments in high-speed train projects and long-distance rail lines, exceeding pre-pandemic funding levels by 55 to 65%. In the Northeast Corridor, which connects Boston to Washington D.C., notable improvements are already underway. The famous Amtrak Acela train, currently the speed and ridership champion of the region, will be revamped with NextGen Acela trains capable of reaching speeds of 290 km/h.
Brightline: a revolution in Florida
In Florida, the Brightline line perfectly illustrates this trend. With journeys between Miami and Orlando at speeds of 202 km/h, this train has managed to capture public attention. Although the first segment, launched in 2018, faced economic difficulties, the extension to Orlando, opened in 2023, resulted in a 250% increase in ridership compared to the previous year. Brightline also plans to expand its services to Tampa, making this line a major transportation axis for the region.
Aspiring projects on the horizon
High-speed train projects are not limited to Florida. The Brightline West project, which will connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles, is expected to cover the distance in just 2 hours and 10 minutes. Construction began in 2024, and this new connection promises to replace part of the 80 daily flights between these two cities. This could not only facilitate transport between the two major hubs but also encourage the use of regional trains like Metrolink in the vast Los Angeles area.
A promising future for other metropolitan areas
Rail projects abound in American metropolitan areas. In Texas, for instance, the high-speed train project between Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth could revolutionize the 240 km journey in less than 90 minutes. Although initiated in 2009, this project has recently been relaunched with federal funding searches led by Amtrak and the Dallas city council.
Growing expectations for the future
In the Pacific Northwest, the Cascadia Rail project aims to connect Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia, passing through Portland and Seattle. This high-speed train network could significantly reduce the current three-hour travel time to less than one hour, making trips much more appealing for travelers.
Seeking balance in mobility
As the desire for sustainable transportation grows, Americans seem more open to various transportation modes. Whether by bike, public transport, or ridesharing, the future of American mobility could lean towards a blend of several options, each deserving its place on the podium.
