Harrisburg will play a central role in a proposed high-speed rail project linking Los Angeles and New York City, aiming to start service by the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Harrisburg Positioned as a Key Stop in National Rail Plan

AmeriStarRail, a Delaware-based company, has introduced “The Transcontinental Chief,” a plan to cut coast-to-coast travel times to under 72 hours. The company intends to use Amtrak-owned tracks and other existing rail infrastructure.

Harrisburg Added to US Rail Expansion Plan
Dubbed the “The Transcontinental Chief,” the proposed line would be up and running in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the New York Post. File photo by Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.comDan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

The route will transport passengers and vehicles, including freight trucks, making it a unique blend of logistics and travel efficiency. AmeriStarRail plans to fund the project entirely through private investors, avoiding taxpayer costs.

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Harrisburg Benefits from Expanded Rail Connectivity

Scott Spencer, the company’s chief operating officer, highlighted the project’s potential to create a new era of profitable rail service. He stressed the importance of combining private innovation with Amtrak’s long-distance network to ensure future sustainability.

A published map shows multiple Pennsylvania stops, including Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia, along with smaller towns like Reading and Tyrone. This extensive route aims to enhance regional and national mobility.

AmeriStarRail plans to launch the line by May 10, 2026, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary and the global sports event. The proposal also seeks to replace Amtrak’s Southwest Chief and Pennsylvanian routes while leveraging host railroads such as BNSF and Norfolk Southern.

If completed, the project will transform U.S. travel, offering faster options for passengers and freight while supporting economic growth. With private funding and strategic planning, AmeriStarRail hopes to set a new standard in American transportation.

Source: www.pennlive.com

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