Amtrak begins
Amtrak began operating most U.S. intercity passenger service in 1971, taking over routes that many private railroads no longer wanted to operate.
Long distance and corridors
The national system includes long-distance trains as well as shorter corridors. States increasingly partner in funding and planning some corridor services.
Commuter rail
Metropolitan commuter rail systems connect suburbs and city centers in several major regions, often using routes with deep railroad history.
A continuing debate
Passenger rail investment raises questions about cost, frequency, travel time, land use, climate, highways, airports, and which city pairs are best suited for rail.