I think its more about passenger routes an jobs rather than high speed rail

- U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) outlined why an investment in rail infrastructure will promote economic development and create jobs during a news conference call today. Brown joined Policy Matters Ohio in discussing a new report that outlines why increasing demand for component parts for rail infrastructure manufactured by Ohio companies will create jobs and promote economic development.

"Ohio plays a critical role in our nation's passenger rail system. That's because we can't have a national rail system without Ohio. Whether it's because of our manufacturers or our location, our state has an important role to play," Brown said. "But passenger rail is about more than another option for getting from Cincinnati to Columbus or Cleveland. Bringing rail back to Ohio means new opportunities for workers and businesses. The rail supply chain has room to grow in Ohio - using Ohio manufacturers and products. Our state can't afford to miss out on these jobs."

In January 2010, Ohio was awarded $400 million to connect Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Dayton by passenger rail through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 (ARRA). Ohio is a key bridge for a national high-speed rail system: the route would allow riders to access both the Chicago Hub and rail lines on the eastern seaboard. The new route will restart passenger rail service between the largest Ohio cities for the first time in more than 30 years. At least six million Ohioans live within 15 miles of the proposed 250 mile route, which represents one of the densest corridors in the United States without passenger rail service. A 2009 Amtrak study of the corridor projected ridership of nearly 500,000 within the first year - making it the 12th most traveled route in the country - and strong growth in the following years.