In Motion Conversation Series: Passenger Rail Resurgence

Intercity passenger rail enjoys a nationwide resurgence thanks to billions in new investment. WSP’s In Motion series explores the opportunities and challenges ahead.

United States | Tuesday, June 25, 2024
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What will it take to realize the incredible mobility, environmental and economic returns promised by historic new intercity passenger rail investments?

Enormous cost, Americans’ cherished property rights and a lack of political will are often cited as reasons why the U.S. lacks passenger rail infrastructure like that found in Asia or Europe.

But change is in the air.

The president and secretary of transportation are stalwart rail supporters. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated more than $100 billion to develop high-speed corridors, identify new intercity routes, and improve existing rail networks. Urban growth and climate trends continue to underscore the need for frequent, reliable and clean rail service between American cities.

Sofia Berger, head of WSP’s earth and environment business line, leads an important conversation with colleagues and former DOT chiefs Paula Hammond, Davey Kim and Shawn Wilson about the opportunities and challenges ahead as passenger rail picks up speed.