Midwest hub for HSR: Union Station or a new facility?

The Tribune's Blair Kamin reports on a proposed design and location for a new HSR station in Chicago.

"Union Station is a poor candidate to serve as a high-speed rail hub.

Despite the soaring image of its barrel-vaulted Great Hall, the passenger concourse east of the hall is confusing and confining, a warren trapped within the structural columns that hold up the office building above it. Going forward, Union Station lacks adequate space to marshal more passengers and handle more trains. Nor does it connect to the Chicago Transit Authority’s express service to O’Hare. Its fundamental problem, though, is that it isn’t really a station. It’s a terminal.

Almost all of Union Station’s tracks, whether northbound or southbound, stop at the station instead of running straight through. That’s no good if you’re a high-speed rail passenger traveling, say, from Milwaukee to Cincinnati. You’d have to change trains in Chicago. Who has time for that? You’d fly instead."

Amtrak & Disney, HSR oversight and CTA Seniors

Amtrak and Disney have teamed up for a 16,000 mile 36 state tour to promote another remake of A Christmas Carol.

Events and promotions like this are hopefully just the beginning of what will be a cultural shift towards engaging young minds in passenger rail. Yes, I know it's just a train promoting a movie, but hopefully our country's movement towards Higher Speed Rail, hopefully High Speed Rail in the not too distant future, coupled with promotions and events that interest children will nurture the next generation of travelers who will utilize rail because they grew up with it being the fastest, most comfortable and most fun way to travel. Making passenger rail enjoyable for all ages through improved performance, competitive pricing and enticing marketing campaigns will have a lasting and positive effect on our nation's transportation and social landscape.

Thanks to Streetsblog Capitol Hill for its entry on HSR Oversight.

S. 1638: The Amtrak Secure Transportation of Firearms Act is currently making its way through Congress.

On a non-HSR, but still interesting note, Mayor Daley has suggested lawmakers reconsider free rides for seniors, people with disabilities and military personnel during the CTA's latest budget crisis, which is resulting in fare increases from $2.25 to $3.00 for the L.