What a horrendous waste of tax payer dollars.  High speed rail is a boondogle of the worst kind.  It  will saddle taxpayers with a losing enterprise forever.  Rail freight is worth supporting but forget about high speed passenger service.  I have taken the train to Chicago and it is an enjoyable experience.  High speed rail won't enhance that experience.  The only way this idea will be sold to taxpayers is if the true costs and on-going losses are hidden from decision makers and the public.