Considering the emergence of the Florida East Coast Brightline,. and the numerous regional lines run by private operators like Burlington Sante Fe around the country, I believe that more commercial operators will be called upon to get into the regional rail business in the next few years. I say this because Amtrak is perpetually strangled for funds and will soon face a serious shortage of equipment of Superliner and Amfleet coaches. With exception of some states stepping in, there is no requisition for such new equipment on the horizon. As the 30-40 yr equipment ages and get worn out what will happen? Government will need to turn to private industry to fill the gap and I envision a whole new network of operators will soon emerge. I am not trying to make the argument of the efficiency of private vs government passenger trains, .just pointing out a reality that will bring about changes. What say you?
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