Credit: aapsky via Shutterstock.
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Staff Writer
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March 4, 2026
Perhaps one of the most ambitious and exciting rail projects, the high-speed train that would connect the country coast to coast, was expected to be ready by May 2026. However, at the end of last year, Amtrak confirmed it would not move forward with AmeriStar’s Transcontinental Chief project.
According to reporting by Railway Supply, Amtrak stated that after reviewing the materials, the proposal “lacked a fundamental business case” and that it was not pursuing the hybrid passenger-and-goods operating model outlined in the pitch.
Since Amtrak controls national passenger rail operations and maintains agreements with freight railroads that own most U.S. track infrastructure, its participation is essential for launching a route of this scale.
A new target: the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
Via Amtrak.
Following the decision, AmeriStarRail has shifted its focus toward federal engagement. Instead of targeting a 2026 debut, company representatives have discussed working with Congress and the U.S. Department of Transportation to reopen negotiations, with the 2028 Olympics emerging as a possible aspirational milestone.
The original proposal did not involve building new high-speed rail infrastructure. Rather, it aimed to unify portions of existing long-distance services into a continuous cross-country option.
What the Transcontinental Chief would look like
Crediti: AmeriStarRail
The proposed Transcontinental Chief would cover roughly 2,800 miles from L.A. to the New York metropolitan area in under 72 hours. Key stops would include:
Los Angeles
Albuquerque
Kansas City
Chicago
Cleveland
Pittsburgh
Harrisburg
New York/Hoboken
The plan also envisioned intermodal hubs for freight and vehicle transport, allowing long-haul truckers to ride part of the journey while resting.