AmeriStarRail, a private rail company, has proposed a new transcontinental rail service called the "Transcontinental Chief," aiming to connect the East and West Coasts of the United States. The proposed service would utilize existing Amtrak tracks and equipment, with plans to launch on May 10, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence. The initiative seeks to provide a faster and more comfortable alternative to long-distance travel, serving both passengers and freight transport needs.
The Transcontinental Chief is designed to operate at speeds of up to 90 mph, covering the distance between Los Angeles and New York in under 72 hours. The service would replace existing Amtrak routes, including the Southwest Chief and the Pennsylvanian, by utilizing existing locomotives, cars, and tracks. This approach aims to enhance efficiency and profitability for Amtrak's long-distance services. The proposal has been presented to Amtrak and various government officials for consideration.
In addition to passenger services, the Transcontinental Chief plans to offer freight transport, including automobiles and trucks. Truck drivers would have the opportunity to rest in Amtrak coaches during mandated rest periods, addressing the nationwide parking shortage for truckers. The service also includes an auto-train component for transporting vehicles such as cars, vans, motorcycles, RVs, and charter motorcoaches between key locations like New York, Chicago, the Grand Canyon, and Los Angeles.
AmeriStarRail emphasizes that the Transcontinental Chief is a privately funded initiative, aiming to revitalize long-distance rail travel without relying on taxpayer dollars or new legislation. The company has conducted research and development over the past two decades to ensure the feasibility and reliability of operating Amtrak's long-distance trains profitably. The proposal has been shared with Amtrak President Roger Harris, the Federal Railroad Administration, and other relevant authorities for review and potential collaboration.
The introduction of the Transcontinental Chief aligns with the broader trend of revitalizing and expanding rail infrastructure in the United States. While high-speed rail projects have faced challenges in the past, initiatives like the Transcontinental Chief represent a concerted effort to modernize the nation's rail network and provide efficient transportation options for both passengers and freight.