Originally Posted by
MrFatbooty
They going to build new tracks or run it on existing lines?.....
h:
Yes and yes.
I'll find more details this week, but logic dictates that they'll use the existing passenger rail lines going into each terminal city. They may upgrade the trackbed for a smoother ride, but noise is a concern as well as safety at the grade-level crossings for road traffic.
So the approach to SF or LA will be limited to a reasonable speed.. say 60 mph.
But for the majority of the run, they will lay have to lay new track down the central valley... so figure on 300+ miles of high-speed rail with a top speed around 150mph.
To put it all in perspective, a road trip from LA to SF takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic. A commuter flight takes about 3 hours if you count time to / from the airport plus all the security BS.
If high-speed rail can get the job done in half the time of driving for half the price of a plane ticket, I'm there. Doubly so if they can carry autos.
h: