Mr. Robl is quite correct that HSR is perfectly doable in this country, and becoming more economically and socially desireable (to many if not everyone) by the day. I also agree that if "somebody" would start the ball rolling (like San Diego did with light rail), it could really take off. But who will pay for that first effort? (San Diego did it with local taxation, avoiding federal funds (and thus was able to use off-the-shelf equipment from Europe at a great cost savings over what would have been mandated by the feds if their money had been used) but the San Diego light rail system was miniscule in scope and cost as compared to an intercity HSR network, complete with thirty years' worth of inflation thrown in.) The fact that endless pork-barrel politicians, NIMBYs, cultural concerns, endangered species, etc. have an effect on such construction only make it more expensive and time-consuming (and thus even more expensive). Even if the spectre of pollution, declining natural resources, global warming, or higher-and-higher priced gasoline (what really matters to most people) brings forth an overwhelming hue and cry for HSR, the above-mentioned constraints will mean decades will pass before such a system is operating. Is it high time we get started? Sure--but who will pony up the bucks?