If a train traveling from Point A to Point B at 240 mph never gets built, how long will it take...

[ProSense]

Here we (don't) go again

Math quiz:

Q: If a train traveling from Point A to Point B at 240 mph never gets built, how long will it take you to reach your destination?

A: 42 years and counting.

During the Commerce, Science and Transportation hearing the other day, Sen. Kerry mentioned Maglev as a high speed rail option that's being used in Japan and China, and he asked Sec. Peters why the administration has done nothing to advance similar technology here at home. Her answer, I believe, was "We are looking at it very hard."

Maglev and similar technologies are not just a solution to overcrowded highways, but would also address environmental issues, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and restore our standing as a technology leader. Because with respect to transportation technology, we're not even close. Oh, we can build it alright. We know how. We just can't seem to cut through all the red tape and get it implemented. As the Senator says, it's shameful.

I mentioned when I posted about the hearing the other day that, as a child, I recalled witnessing a prototype of a light rail system in my home town of Pittsburgh.

It's amazing what you can find on youtube.

(Video: http://www.kerryvision.net">Pittsburgh Skybus 1967)

The title says 1967, but I think it was actually 1965 when Skybus made its debut at South Park Fairgrounds, about a mile from my house. I was six. You can do the math, but it's not part of the quiz, and I'd really rather you didn't.

more

[spinbaby]

1. They're waiting for the infallible free market to build it.

:eyes:

[fedupinBushcountry]

2. K&R

:kick:

[gateley]

3. In 1962 the Seattle Monorail was called the rail of the future. Still waiting...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2H5GfnDO7o

[enid602]

4. California

700 miles of subway, elevated, light and commuter rail built in the Los Angeles area in just 20 years. It is possible. Mass transit now available in LA, Long Beach, Riverside, San Berdoo, OC, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Sacramento, Stockton.

[truedelphi]

5. I live 2 and a half hours from the Bay area.

Was telling a friend that lives in S.F. that I wished we had a bullet train from where I live into the heart of San Francisco.

"But, Carol, you'd have to pay like twenty dolalrs for a ticket!"

I'd gladly do it. I pay $ 23 for gas if I use my car.

[HCE SuiGeneris]

6. PAC's and oil companies will not allow it . They control the direction of our gov't

silly! :argh:

[Karmageddon]

7. We're spending money in Iraq so we don't have to spend it here.