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Midwest states get $268 million for high-speed trains

The U.S. Department of Transportation this week awarded $268 million to Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and Missouri for the purchase of high-speed trains.
By Ken Paulman

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The U.S. Department of Transportation this week awarded $268 million to Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and Missouri for the purchase of high-speed trains.

The investment is ​“all about jobs,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in a news release, emphasizing that the equipment will be American-made.

A strict ​“Buy America” requirement ensures that U.S. manufacturers and workers receive the maximum economic benefits from this federal investment. In 2009, Secretary LaHood secured a commitment from 30 foreign and domestic rail manufacturers to employ American workers and locate or expand their base of operations in the U.S. if they are selected for high-speed-rail contracts.

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Ken Paulman is the director of impact at Canary Media. He was previously the founder and director of the Energy News Network, which merged with Canary Media in 2025.

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