The Development of High Speed Rail in the United States: Issues and Recent Events

"Estimates of the cost of constructing HSR vary according to train speed, the topography of the
corridor, the cost of right-of-way, and other factors. Few if any HSR lines anywhere in the world
have earned enough revenue to cover both their construction and operating costs, even where
population density is far greater than anywhere in the United States. Typically, governments have
paid the construction costs, and in many cases have subsidized the operating costs as well. These
subsidies are often justified by the social benefits ascribed to HSR in relieving congestion,
reducing pollution, increasing energy efficiency, and contributing to employment and economic
development. It is unclear whether these potential social benefits are commensurate with the
likely costs of constructing and operating HSR..."