Part 15/16:
While the big vision of nationwide high-speed rail remains distant and politically contentious, these smaller, quieter improvements might be the most effective way to sustain real progress. They provide a pragmatic, steady foundation for a system that could eventually evolve into a more modern, reliable, and extensive network.
Final Thoughts
Amtrak’s journey from a struggling, underfunded service to a more robust transportation option in 2025 is marked not by sudden leaps but by consistent, incremental wins. From new trains and regional routes to infrastructure upgrades and smarter operations, the agency is quietly setting the stage for a renewed passenger rail future—one small improvement at a time.