I don't have a problem with rail traffic sport where it makes sense. Sadly in most of the United States, most, try 95%, it just doesnt make sense. In Urban corridors is where it makes the most sense. I've heard the comment about the 300 mile distance before. A lot depends on just what you are going to when you get there. Say I live in Chicago and wa t to go to St Louis for a three game series with the Cardinals. That would be ideal. Stay downtown, you're close to Busch. But what if you have to go on business and the client (s)/customers are spread out. Then you are most likely looking at renting a car. Might as well drive yourself. Light or commuter rail is another issue. Just what is the transportation situation where you are going. About the same time as HSR from Chicago to the Twin Cities was being talked about and turned down in Wisconsin a light rail line was proposed to run from Kenosha* to downtown Milwaukee with stops in between. Over existing right of way**. The cars would have been similar to the old Budd self powered ones. That was opposed by a number of groups/individuals. Some of them community activists. At the same time Milwaukee runs its freeway flyers from pick-up sites located at exits along the interstate. Even if it runs at a loss it gets cars off of the road at peak hours. I'm still pissed about the North Shore shutting down and the right of way being cut up.
Kenosha is also the northern terminus for Metra
** Former C&NW now UP
Kenosha is also the northern terminus for Metra
** Former C&NW now UP