According to one online survey among 2,566 adults between January 17 and 24, 2011 to gauge awareness, intention to use and position on funding for high-speed rail. At the time of the survey, there were ten proposed high-speed rail corridors across the United Statesª. To-date, projects in California and Florida have been the most visible.

When Americans were asked about awareness of High Speed Train projects, only a little more than a third (35%) of those living in one of the proposed high-speed rail corridors said they are aware of a High Speed Train project that is either proposed or under development in their state, with more than four in ten (45%) unsure. “The relatively low awareness of High Speed Trains across the country is not surprising given the disparate, regional nature of today’s hottest High Speed Train debates” said Linda Schulz, Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy at Harris Interactive. “However, as discussions become more prominent in more areas, and as projects get underway, we will be well positioned to monitor changing awareness and attitudes”. Not surprisingly, awareness is highest in states where High Speed Trains are developing the fastest (68% are aware in California corridor, 60% in Florida). Awareness in other states with proposed high-speed rail projects include the Chicago Hub at 31% and New York at 28%.

After explaining High Speed Trains, two thirds of Americans (66%) indicate they are somewhat or very likely to consider using the service when traveling for pleasure, but that number drops in half (33%) when asked about travel for business. Men, however, are more likely to consider High Speed Train travel than women for both business and pleasure. Additionally, those with more education and greater income are also more likely to consider traveling by Super High Speed Trains.

So who will ride the Super High Speed Trains when they are built and ready to ride? We are convinced everyone will. Won’t you?

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