Human Interest

Survey Shows High-Speed Rail Is Gaining Support

Posted: 1/21/2011

In a recent survey, many people said they would use high-speed rail because they thought it would be faster than driving and cheaper than flying.

(NAPSI) - A majority of U.S. travelers report they are on track with the idea of using high-speed rail. That’s the word from experts who say a recent large-scale study shows that nearly two-thirds of adults (62 percent) said they would definitely or probably use high-speed rail service for leisure or business travel if it were an option.

Travel time and cost are key

Convenience and saving money were key factors for whether travelers would choose high-speed rail service over other modes of transportation.

For example, when asked which factors would likely influence their decision to choose high-speed rail service, survey respondents mentioned:

• Shorter travel times compared to driving (91 percent);

• Less expensive than flying (91 percent);

• Less expensive than driving (89 percent); and

• Integration with local public transit so I can avoid use of rental cars, cabs and parking fees (85 percent).

Time and the environment

Other factors survey respondents ranked as important included shorter travel times compared to flying (80 percent) and environmental concerns (75 percent).

Providing jobs and options

American Public Transportation Association (APTA) President William Millar said, “We strongly support the government’s commitment to implementing high-speed rail. It will provide more options for travelers, as well as create jobs and be a strong boost for the local economy.”

Investment proposed

APTA proposes that Congress invest $50 billion over the next six years in high-speed rail. The association says the investment during that time frame, along with $123 billion in public transportation investment, will help support and create 6.2 million jobs.

The survey of 24,711 adults, was conducted for APTA by Synovate, a leading market research firm.

APTA is a nonprofit international association of more than 1,500 public and private member organizations engaged in the areas of bus, paratransit, light rail, commuter rail, subways, waterborne passenger services and high-speed rail.

To learn more, visit www.apta.com or call (202) 496-4800.

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