Perhaps one of the most ambitious and exciting rail projects, AmeriStarRail’s Transcontinental Chief that would connect the country coast to coast, was slated for a May 2026 debut–right in time for the FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. However, at the end of 2025, Amtrak confirmed it would not move forward with the high-speed train project.
According to numerous reports, Amtrak stated that after reviewing the outline, the proposal was “lacking a fundamental business case” and it would not be pursuing the hybrid passenger-and-goods operating model outlined in the pitch.
Amtrak’s involvement is vital for this major route, as they control U.S. passenger rail operations and hold key access agreements with the freight companies that own the tracks.
A new proposed launch date: the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
Following the rejection, AmeriStarRail shifted its focus toward federal engagement.
Since a 2026 debut is now out of the question, AmeriStarRail Chief Operating Officer Scott Spencer told Fox43 they’re now planning to work with Congress, the Federal Railroad Administration, and the U.S. Department of Transportation to reopen negotiations for a 2028 launch, timed with the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Rather than building new high-speed rail infrastructure, the proposed route would have connected portions of existing long-distance services, creating a continuous cross-country option.
An inside look at the Transcontinental Chief
The proposed Transcontinental Chief would cover roughly 2,800 miles from the New York metropolitan area to Southern California in under 72 hours.
New Yorkers would be able to hop on the PATH to Hoboken, New Jersey, and ultimately make their way to Union Station in LA. Travelers would venture through 54 cities in total, with key stops including:
- New York/Hoboken, NJ
- Harrisburg, PA
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Cleveland, OH
- Chicago, IL
- Kansas City, MO
- Albuquerque, NM
- Los Angeles, CA
The plan also included intermodal hubs to enable long-haul truckers to rest while their vehicles traveled by rail or ship.