[mhays]

True high speed would be great. But basic reliable service that averages even 40 or 50 mph would be popular too, assuming it's between major cities in a certain range of distance. At 150 miles, a 50 mph average would roughly equal a flight if your trip is from downtown to downtown, which is the case for a lot of business travelers and tourists. That might even beat cars assuming heavy traffic.

Even a 40 mph average can fill up, using my own region as an example. A lot of people find the train easier, even if it takes slightly longer.