A new direct train service between Los Angeles and New York has been proposed — and it’s claimed that it would “revolutionize” rail travel for leisure passengers and truckers.
Moreover, the scheme circumvents the need for taxpayer dollars and congressional legislation, which would be sticking points for President Trump.
The Transcontinental Chief is the brainchild of private sector company AmeriStarRail, which aims to launch the coast-to-coast service in partnership with Amtrak on National Train Day, Sunday, May 10, 2026, in time to serve tourists for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As well as taking passengers from match to match, AmeriStarRail says that the train would simply “be a great way to see America during our nation’s 250th birthday”.
The intermodal train would also serve as a “rolling rest stop for truckers” and “provide a safe alternative to the nationwide parking shortage”.
Currently, there are 11 truckers for every space needed, AmeriStarRail claims.
It explains: “At railports along the route, truckers will be able to drive their entire tractor-trailer trucks onto railroad flatcars and then rest and relax onboard Amtrak coach, sleeper, and dining cars as they travel 200—500 miles during their federally mandated 10-hour rest period.”
The firm adds: “Passengers will also be offered a transcontinental Auto Train service for cars, vans, motorcycles, RVs and charter motorcoaches serving New York, Chicago, the Grand Canyon and Los Angeles.”
Currently, traveling by train from Los Angeles to New York involves at least one change, in Chicago, and takes between 68 and 70 hours.
The diesel-powered Transcontinental Chief would travel via Chicago at speeds of up to 90 mph along the same existing tracks, as well as on freight lines, and take approximately the same length of time.
AmeriStarRail says it will be “faster, safer and more comfortable” than driving coast to coast.
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