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<p>If the politicians, transport planners, and citizens of Illinois believe that expanded train service is a good deal for the Land of Lincoln, why do they need federal money to make it happen? The same question applies to the other Midwestern states that were mentioned. Surely the proponents of spending federal tax monies on enhanced passenger rail service have done the appropriate market studies and have found that a market exists for the expanded services; one that could be supported with state and private monies.</p><p>What market research data supports the premise that a pair of trains between Nashville and Chicago would draw a significant number of riders? This market is served by 54 nonstop plus 74 multiple stop daily flights. The flying time is approximately one hour and 25 minutes. The fares start at $104 one way. </p><p>Where are the markets studies that support a quartet of trains between Chicago and Pittsburgh? This market is served by 44 nonstop flights plus another 160 multiple stop daily flights. The flying time is approximately one hour and 20 minutes. The fares start at $76 one way. </p><p>It is approximately 460 miles from Chicago to Pittsburgh. Assuming an average speed of 82 miles per hour, which presumably would require a costly upgrade of the railway right-of-way; it would take a train 5.6 hours to go from Chicago to Pittsburgh. By taking a plane, a business person can fly from Chicago to Pittsburgh in time for lunch, plus several afternoon meetings, and be back in Chicago in time for a late dinner with his or her family. Why would he or she want to take a train? </p><p>Similar questions apply to the other markets that were mentioned. </p><p>Several other relevant questions come to mind reagrding the proposed increase in funding for Amtrak. Given the federal expenditure deficit, which is running at an annual rate of $540 billion through the first seven months of fiscal year 2008, where does the money come from? Also, how much would the Midwest projects cost? And how much money would be left over for the other areas of the country? </p><p> </p>
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