Benefits of High Speed Rail

Investment in clean, energy efficiency 21st century transportation is a way to sustainably grow America's economy. The creation of a nationwide high speed rail system will generate green jobs, enhance economic productivity and reduce carbon emissions. 
There are many other benefits, including: 

Environment

• Saves 6 billion of CO2 annually
• Reduces car travel by 29 million trips annually
• Cuts air travel by nearly 500,000 flights annually
• Takes up only 1/3 of the land used for highways

Energy

• Uses 1/3 less energy per mile than auto or air travel
• Braking trains regenerate electricity back to the power grid
• A nationwide system could reduce oil use by 125 million barrels a year

Jobs

• Every $1 billion in HSR stimulus funding supports 20,000 jobs
• Each HSR job supports an additional 4.5 jobs in other sectors of our economy
• Creates new green jobs and enhances the green job industry

Economy 

• Every dollar spent on HSR will stimulate $3.00 in economic activity
• Economic value of improved mobility has been valued at $13.2 billion through 2030
• Pulls together regional economies and promotes intra-regional business growth
• Rejuvenates urban centers and supports walkable communities

Mobility 

• Reduces overall traffic congestion
• Offers high capacity of transport – up to 400,000 passengers per day
• Safe and reliable mode of travel, in virtually all weather conditions
• HSR can deliver can transport just as fast as airplanes at a fraction of the cost