Why Isn't Chicago to New York 10 Hours by Amtrak?
The approximately 949 mile journey from Chicago to New York via Amtrak currently takes around 11 hours, despite the relatively short distance. This discrepancy can largely be attributed to the speed limits and frequent stops along the route, a common issue for intercity rail in the United States. Unlike high-speed rail systems elsewhere, which can approach or even surpass 200 mph, Amtrak's Water Level Route is hampered by numerous factors that extend the travel time significantly.
Speed Limits and Track Conditions
According to the Federal Railroad Administration, the track speed for passenger trains on the Water Level Route between Chicago and Albany is 79 mph, with some sections slower. The Florida Actions Committee has noted that Norfolk Southern and CSX operate freight trains on this route, which can impose additional delays. These delays occur because freight trains must share the tracks with passenger trains, which necessitates adherence to slower speed limits to ensure safety.
Impact of Shared Tracks
Freight trains can significantly slow down Amtrak's passenger service. With multiple stops along the way, the journey involves Speed reductions of under 79 mph, as well as extended stops: 10 minutes or more in key cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, and Rochester. Furthermore, the route splits in Albany, and a portion of the journey goes to Boston, taking even more time.
Visibility and Public Perceptions
The public perception of rail travel has a significant impact on its development in the United States. Unlike countries like Japan and France, where high-speed rail is an integral part of the transportation infrastructure, the United States tends to focus more on highways and airports. This neglect is particularly evident in the comparison with European systems like Eurostar or the transcontinental train from Coatesville, PA, to Chicago, IL.
Personal Experience with Eurostar
The personal experience with Eurostar from Venice to Palermo provides a stark contrast. The train journey was not only faster but also kept a tight schedule, proving that similar standards can be achieved. The actual travel time of the Venice to Palermo train was 16 hours, significantly less than the Chicago to New York route, which often takes 11 to 13 hours.
Chicago to Chicago Commuter Rail
A similar story emerges from the Amtrak journey from Coatesville, PA, to Chicago. This journey is scheduled to take around 22 hours, and despite the long distance of about 360 miles, the average speed is far slower due to numerous stops and delays. In one instance, the train arrived at Union Station 18 hours late, and the driver humorously remarked that he would never board another Amtrak train again.
Cost and Public Support
The combination of political priorities and public perception poses a significant barrier to the development of efficient intercity rail in the United States. Unlike highway expansions, which are more readily supported, rail projects often face opposition, particularly from those concerned with the impact on local landscapes and the rural areas they pass through. In many cases, the cost and time required for such projects are seen as excuses for inaction.
Future Prospects and Alternatives
Despite these challenges, public interest in efficient rail travel is growing. If there is the will to invest in dedicated high-speed rail lines, which would be free from freight traffic, the journey from Chicago to New York could be considerably shortened. However, current public attitudes and political priorities suggest that such a project is unlikely to receive wide support anytime soon.
Conclusion
While the United States has considerable distance to cover in terms of rail development, the existing infrastructure and public perceptions present significant obstacles. Until there is a recognition that passenger rail is a valid and necessary element of the transportation infrastructure, punctual and enjoyable journeys similar to those available in Europe will remain a distant dream for many American travelers.