(Originally posted in 2013) North America has yet to fully realize the potential 
contribution of railroads to the economy, environment, and land use. Despite the good work of railroad developers, investors, and staff, as well as significant public sector support, railroads remain underutilized for transporting goods and people.
Our North American freight rail system is so robust that it is easy to overlook the potential for a continental surge in capacity and reach. But railroads are energy-, capital-, and space-efficient, and these benefits are key to our future. It is time to get to work on the rail system that a growing, modern society ultimately needs to be successful and sustainable.