ABSTRACT
The decisionmaking process is the most salient difference between US and foreign transportation planning. National policy has dictated large federal commitments and support to high-speed rail system devel opment in Japan and Western Europe. Within the US, where spending decisions have primarily been driven by the modal funding mechanisms in place (e.g., Highway and Aviation Trust Funds), HSGT develop ment has yet to capture wide public attention, sufficient public sub scription, and therefore adequate political consideration to assume a significant place alongside other favored transportation options in keeping with its potential as perceived by rail advocates.
