Great Expectations: Railroads and US Economic Recovery

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) discusses the importance of the nation's freight rail system for its economy, while providing a roadmap for the system to remain viable during recession.

Charges introduced by Congress and the White House, according to the AAR, are threatening the rail industry in the US, which will in turn affect the wider economy, and the cost of goods and services.

The association highlights the rail system's contribution to economy, including the nearly $265bn it generates in total annual economic activity and the 1.2 million jobs it supports directly and indirectly.

The railroads have played a huge part in US culture and history, and are now under threat. This white paper lays out the AAR's plans to make the railroads competitive again in the 21st century.