The CSX commercials state that their trains get 283 miles to a gallon of oil. Freight trains have always been an economical way to ship, but they no longer go everywhere. I like the intermodal concept, which puts the distance haul on the train, which off-loads at a station where trucks that the stuff to "local" destinations.

Used to be that way, only now we can and do load the truck trailers on the train (two high!). Done correctly this is a great savings in time and money.

Passenger service CAN be restored IF the citizens of the US don't require immediate delivery to their destinations. Getting out at a station (and they can be cleaned up) and taking a bus or taxi or (dare I say it?) walking could serve. Also, the passenger service can no longer stop at every small town, even on a "flag drop". True high-speed rail (a la the TGV) could move passengers in comfort from LA to NYC in a day or two IF it is recognized that these are truly express trains and they WILL leave on time whether or not you are aboard.

I once made the run from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder. Wonderful trip...which took three days. We have to go back to looking at trains as ways of moving masses of freight and people around quickly and safely, but not, perhaps, through the most scenic regions.