The N&R editorializes on federal funding for rail improvements in North Carolina:
Stimulus critics say that’s too steep a price to pay for shaving less than a half-hour from a one-way trip. In fact, several states that have seen a conservative shift in leadership recently rejected stimulus funding for faster passenger service. Some Republicans in Raleigh are pushing for a similar response in North Carolina.
That would be shortsighted. Highway construction is time-consuming and expensive. Investing in long-term rail infrastructure will pay future dividends. In the short term, more convenient, safe service will help relieve at least some of the congestion in the already crowded I-85/I-40 corridor through the Piedmont.
You know how I feel. If you don’t trust me —- and you probably don’t —- how about CJ editor Rick Henderson, who notes the average North Carolinian will take a train trip once every 27 years.
