MENU
SEARCHThe U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition's first-of-its-kind action plan is intended to equip advocates with practical tips, realistic expectations, and strategic support as they work to launch new high-speed train projects in their regions.
The report argues long-term, strategic advocacy campaigns are required to launch new high-speed projects.
Photo: California High-Speed Rail Authority
The U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition unveiled a roadmap with real-world guidance on how to launch a new high-speed rail project.
The first-of-its-kind action plan is intended to equip advocates with practical tips, realistic expectations, and strategic support as they work to launch new high-speed train projects in their regions.
“High-speed rail lines are complex megaprojects with unique challenges,” said Bernard Cohen, sr. advisor, planning and operations, at Alternate Concepts Inc.; former Massachusetts Department of Transportation Secretary; and the principal author of the roadmap. “We’ve created a practical guide that demystifies what’s involved in launching a new high-speed rail project.”
“High-Speed Rail Projection Initiation: A Roadmap for Advocates” focuses on five key building blocks of success, including organization, technical planning, strategic engagement, project funding, and compelling communications.
The report argues long-term, strategic advocacy campaigns are required to launch new high-speed projects. When designing campaigns, advocates must be fully aware of potential pitfalls, as well as likely sources of support and opposition.
Capitalizing on Voter Support
The roadmap notes that a recent survey by Public Policy Polling for the Coalition found 72% of U.S. registered voters support the creation of a nationwide HSR network in the U.S.
According to Ezra Silk, Political Director of the Coalition, a major goal of the report is to help build a grassroots movement for a national high-speed rail network.
“Launching high-speed rail involves technical experts, but you don’t need to be a transportation planner to take the lead in bringing high-speed rail to your community,” said Silk. “Millions of Americans want high-speed rail, and this report will help give them the tools they need to turn their bullet train dreams into reality.”
The roadmap was designed by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. In May, the 600,000-member union announced a voluntary recognition agreement with Siemens Mobility to represent workers who will build the trainsets for the Brightline West high-speed rail project that will connect Las Vegas to Southern California by 2028.
Site construction is complete, production is underway, and the first locally built passenger coaches are on track for delivery in Summer 2026.
Read More →
Crews completed a significant portion of the testing required before commissioning the new, digital signaling system, which will bring important upgrades that strengthen Red Line service reliability for riders and provide Red Line Operations the ability to route trains more quickly, turn trains around faster, and recover from unplanned disruptions more efficiently, said MBTA officials.
Read More →
In addition to new projects, progress continues on a multiyear effort to upgrade track, electrical, and signal systems on the Metra Electric Line to accommodate the expansion of service on the South Shore Line.
Read More →
The Maryland Transit Administration is advancing the nearly $1.4 billion Light Rail Modernization Program, which modernizes the Baltimore Central Light Rail Line from Hunt Valley to BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport with new, low-floor vehicles and upgrades to all light rail stations, systems, and maintenance facilities.
Read More →
The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board recently met for a budget workshop, during which staff outlined the significant service reductions Caltrain could be forced to make without new external funding.
Read More →
Funding for the purchase of the railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars Gov. Josh Shapiro allocated in November 2025 to support urgent safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.
Read More →
The $945 million project connects four new stations and expands regional mobility.
Read More →
Research ties rail access to lower depression, better cognition and improved air quality.
Read More →
With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving.
Read More →
The final seven-mile segment of the 2 Line includes new stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park and connects to the 1 Line at the International District/Chinatown Station. The Link light rail system now spans 63 miles and includes 50 stations.
Read More →
