The Tucson-Phoenix region needs to start thinking about the long-term transit solution of high-speed rail, according to this op-ed.
"A visionary plan for the Tucson-Phoenix Corridor growth would have as its centerpiece a high-speed, heavy-rail connection of the French TGV or Japanese bullet-train variety. This transportation spine would employ proven, state-of-the-art equipment, be electrified, have two tracks - one for each direction - and be built on a new right of way. The 95-mile trip between cities would take 45 minutes at speeds up to 185 miles per hour. Stations would be in Phoenix, Maricopa, Casa Grande, Eloy, Marana, and Tucson. Trains would depart each city every 30 minutes."
"This electrified high-speed system and its supporting light-rail feeder connections would have the potential to dramatically reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, refocus attention from building highways to the use of energy-efficient public transportation, and stimulate commerce both between, and within, Phoenix and Tucson."
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