Use the US Military to build a National High Speed Rail System

Imagine a nation where efficient and sustainable transportation is not just a dream but a reality. A country where high-speed trains crisscross the landscape, connecting cities and towns, while reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. This might seem like an ambitious vision, but it's not out of reach. Inspired by Mexico's recent success in building the first parts of a national electric passenger rail network, the United States has the possibility of embarking on a similar journey. By taking a strategic approach and utilizing existing resources, we can revolutionize our transportation system, enhance military infrastructure, and combat climate change simultaneously.

Mexico has had remarkable progress in building new high speed rail over the last few years few years. They serve as a testament to what can be accomplished with the right vision and commitment. Tren Maya, a monumental rail project spanning the Yucatan Peninsula, will be opening in December with over 900 miles of track on day one, a mere five years after it was announced in 2018. Additionally, an additional route the Tren del Pacifico, a Baja California rail route, has a planned opening in 2027, demonstrating their commitment to expand their national rail network rapidly. If Mexico can achieve such feats, there is no reason why the United States cannot follow suit.

The United States has a rich history of utilizing its military infrastructure for civilian purposes. The interstate highway system, a cornerstone of American transportation, was initially developed for military use. Similarly, the US Army Corps of Engineers can play a vital role in building a national high-speed rail (HSR) system. Leveraging their expertise, the Corps can update major rail routes, ensure electrification, enhance safety measures, and upgrade speeds as necessary. This collaboration would allow for optimal movement of freight and passengers, utilizing electrified and medium to high-speed routes.

To ensure a cohesive and efficient high-speed rail network, it is imperative to nationalize strategic rail infrastructure. This includes bringing all privately owned rail lines and strategic rights of way (ROWs) under unified national management. By consolidating the oversight of tracks and stations, we can streamline operations and enable effective coordination among different operators, allowing coast-to-coast service for freight and passenger service on new electrified lines, while both public and private operators can use the same infrastructure. This approach, similar to the management of airline routes and scheduling, would circumvent regulatory restrictions and roadblocks, expediting the construction and implementation of the system. Rail nationalization has occurred several times in US history: In 1862 for the duration of the Civil War, in 1917 during WWI, briefly in 1943 to help settle a strike, and in 1976 to take over bankrupt freight rail lines.

One of the most compelling aspects of this approach is its potential to garner bipartisan support. By framing the development of a national high-speed rail system as a part of military funding, both Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The historical precedence of utilizing military infrastructure for civilian purposes establishes a strong foundation for this proposal. By emphasizing the benefits to national security, job creation, and economic growth, we can unite politicians across the aisle in support of this transformative initiative.

The time has come for the United States to reimagine its transportation infrastructure and embrace the possibilities of a national high-speed rail system. By leveraging the expertise of the US Army Corps of Engineers, nationalizing strategic rail infrastructure, and bypassing regulatory roadblocks, we can create an efficient, sustainable, and interconnected transportation network. Following Mexico's lead, we have a proven blueprint to follow and the potential to realize significant progress before the end of this decade. It's time to prioritize the urgency of climate change and invest in infrastructure that will shape our future. Let's embrace the transformative power of high-speed rail and pave the way to a greener, more connected America.

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