There Are Problems with Railroads.

1. The design really needs a technological update.

2. The infrastructure requirements are an economic disaster.

3. More studies just line the pockets of special consultants.

4. Waiting for handouts from the federal government.

5. Trying to recycle obsolete technology "trains".

6. Availability and scheduling.

The Sky Hook

This is a proposal for a high-speed train with many obvious advantages.

Modular engine chassis

disconnect from the passenger compartments

at stations with elevator-style unload/load platforms.

This allows ground level access,

and minimizes the area of departure stations.

This can be built above existing

tracks, roads, and other limitations

thereby eliminating the constraints

of landlocked properties,

and with no intersections

having  to be rebuilt year after year,

the cost of a this project  would

be offset with these savings alone.

Snow and ice are not a problem,

because the mechanics of the transport module

are above and enclosed.

A two-track suspension system

would eliminates the problems

inherent in a monorail system.

The center of gravity is a hanging load,

rather than the load sitting on top of it,

providing the stability to allow higher speeds. 

Lithium batteries and computer-controlled servomotors

would drive the modular engine chassis.

Different size and type of cubicles can be built,

accommodating 4 passengers at a time,

or larger cubicles for cars and other shipped goods,

allowing 24/7 access year round.

Iron workers and construction workers

would be hired by the thousands to erect the support columns,

spurring an economic engine

that would allow the workers to own and operate facilities,

engaging citizen participation.