Despite the quick decline of high-speed rail projects and a $4 billion dip compared to 2010, this year's Top Rail Projects survey features four new projects, including Honolulu's $5.3 billion light rail project. The Toronto Transit Commission again tops this year's list, with Canadian projects, overall, putting together a strong showing.

Ridership potential is the number one factor in determining if a corridor is suitable for investment, according to a new study. It proposes that the federal government prioritize investments where the potential for ridership demand is greatest.

Company predicts steady growth and continued expansion into new global markets. Products unveiled at the exhibit included a new high-speed rail platform.

The Western High Speed Rail Alliance's inaugural conference, held in Las Vegas in mid-October, brought industry professionals together to tout the benefits of high-speed rail and highlight projects and the need for funding and support.

While on the face of it the proposal sounds like a great idea, the changes miss the real solution to building the U.S. transit supply side and could worsen American companies' ability to compete overseas.

Although funding impacts businesses as much as high-speed rail authorities, many manufacturers are excited for the opportunity to provide services in the U.S. and optimistic their products have what it will take.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, shown at a press event at the Los Angeles City Hall, wants the federal government to loan directly, or guarantee private sector loans, to the county's Metropolitan Transportation Authority to the tune of $8.8 billion.

The $8 billion in ARRA funds awarded to 13 high-speed rail projects in January will impact about 31 states and is only the beginning of a new transportation vision by the Obama administration.

President Obama's focus on rail harkens back to the days of the first 'rail president' and fellow Illinois native, Abraham Lincoln.