Knowledge that Transforms

This paper begins with the premise that our intercity passenger transport system is less effective than we would like, and it asks if there is a place for revitalized railroad passenger service. The railroad passenger efforts of the thirties and of the early fifties were doomed at the outset by public policy favoring airport and highway development. Energy and environment may be factors, but service must be made attractive. The paper concludes that the railroad role is in the 500 to 1000 mile range between heavily populated areas where congestion is severe. It concludes that such service can be made equal to airline and bus service.

This paper considers Amtrak from an economic viewpoint. It analyzes Amtrak's markets and determines that there are two: corridors and long distance routes. It suggests criteria for evaluating Amtrak performance. It finds no case for subsidizing the long distance trains, but does cite circumstances under which corridor operations would be deserving of subsidies.