[Zach_the_Lizard]

> But that sort of utility wouldn't support a robust nationwide network of passenger rail.

You don't need nationwide, you need regional. The East Coast and parts of the Midwest would do well with a decent train network. Sure, Chicago to Denver is never going to be reasonable, but Chicago to Indianapolis or St. Louis? That could be a train trip.

As American re-urbanizes, these sorts of trips become more and more reasonable to make by train as cars become less necessary.