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[quote user="P.A.Talbot"] RWM:  I am wondering if state and federal politicals conducted any feasibility studies [and back check] on the building of an interstate highway system back in the 50's. I hate to have to keep going back to the development of the IHS in the 1950's (hind sight is always 20/20!), but the development of an Interstate Railway System will probibly develope along the same fromat.  Where did the railroad industry stand with regards to spending federal tax money on a IHS system?  Is there any historical data?  I recall recently that a comment was made with regards to there being a military or strategic value to the building of the IHS.  Suppose, between now and 2016 there is a military/strategic/economic value for a nation wide rail network?  What, in your opinion, would have to change in Washington, or in the overall economy, to get businesses and the traveling public behind the creation of an HSR/IRSA network? [/quote] The Interstate Highway System was a 1950s solution to a transportation problem.  Those who claim that we should develop a similar passenger rail system in this century, i.e. NARP, have adopted a solution chasing a problem perspective. The key question is what type of passenger rail system, if any, should taxpayers help fund in 2009?  And how much can they afford?  What is the real problem?  This is how a viable business would approach the problem.  My vote is for short, relatively high density corridors where the cost to build additional airway and highway capacity is cost prohibitive.  The corridors should be capable of speeds that make taking the train more attractive than driving, but I don't see the need for high speed rail.  It is too bloody expensive for the results.
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