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."
FULL STORY: From here to there, faster

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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