Is maglev rail Japan's 'Spruce Goose'?
Critics argue that the extremely costly project is inherently risky in a country due to experience a rapid decline in population, while airlines are increasing budget services, according to the report.
Maglev train photo by Yosemite via Wikimedia Commons
Maglev train photo by Yosemite via Wikimedia Commons
TSURU, Japan — The Central Japan Railway Co (JR Tokai) successfully completed another test run of its new ultra-high speed magnetic levitation (maglev) rail line on Monday, reaching a top speed of 500 km/hour, outstripping the fastest shinkansen train in operation, the Hayabusa, which tops out at 320 km/hour, The Diplomat reported.
While the new train rollout is proceeding smoothly and generating interest domestically, the long-term plan is extremely costly and full of engineering challenges. The line is envisioned to connect Tokyo and Osaka by 2045 at an estimated construction cost of 9 trillion yen ($82 billion). Critics argue that the project is inherently risky in a country due to experience a rapid decline in population, while airlines are increasing budget services, according to the report.
For the full story, click here.
More Management
Transit Expands Agency Partnerships, Reaching 200 Official App Partners
COO Jake Sion discusses Transit’s growth, the success of its Transit Royale program, and how technology is helping agencies improve the rider experience.
Read More →
Everett Transit, Community Transit Approve Consolidation of Services
The agreement will bring Everett Transit into Community Transit’s network in April 2027, with plans to increase bus service by 50% by 2031 and expand regional connections.
Read More →
NITA Proposes $5B Operating Budget, $9.7B Capital Program for 2027
The proposed budget includes funding for expanded transit service, safety initiatives, fleet upgrades, and infrastructure improvements across CTA, Metra, and Pace.
Read More →
Financing, Fleet Replacement Requires a More Strategic Approach
Executives from ABC Companies and MCI discuss how rising costs, changing market conditions, and post-pandemic challenges are prompting motorcoach operators to rethink financing strategies, fleet replacement cycles, and long-term planning.
Read More →
Bringing Austin’s First Light Rail System to Life
Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally discusses the city's nearly 10-mile light rail project, its collaborative approach to project delivery, the importance of community engagement, and the milestones ahead as construction approaches in 2027.
Read More →
ETA CEO John Maglio on Transit Technology, Innovation, and Building Agency Trust
ETA founder and CEO John Maglio explores the evolution of transit technology, the importance of reliable systems, and how stronger partnerships can help agencies improve operations and the passenger experience.
Read More →
Metra Draft Plan Outlines Costs, Service Improvements for Regional Rail
The Systemwide Network Plan identifies infrastructure needs and potential investments to expand all-day, bidirectional rail service across the Chicago region.
Read More →
New Orleans RTA Names Augustine III as New CEO
In this edition, we also spotlight recent personnel moves at HDR, PATH, STV, and more, highlighting the people taking on new roles across the transportation industry.
Read More →
How Transit Agencies Are Using Free Rides to Improve Voting Access
Transit agencies are using fare-free service, trip-planning tools, and targeted rides to improve voting access. See what other agencies can learn from these efforts.
Read More →
Caltrain’s Electrification Drives a New Era of Ridership Growth
The railroad’s shift to electric service has brought more frequent trains, stronger customer satisfaction, and increased ridership, earning it APTA’s Outstanding Public Transportation System award.
Read More →