High-speed rail gets moment in congressional spotlight

High-speed rail advocates talked up its benefits at a congressional hearing Thursday, while opponents raised concerns around how projects can be financed and be economically viable.

Supporters’ testimony before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials focused on how high-speed rail could translate to reduced congestion, new job opportunities and economic revitalization for communities.

But the specter of the troubled California High-Speed Rail project loomed large for opponents, who said it showed that similar projects are not feasible, even as elected leaders talked up the potential for a robust network.
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