Choose Chicago, high-speed rail fans say

Supporters of high-speed rail should know as early as today if the train is heading for Chicago.

President Obama is expected to announce how the federal government will divvy up $8 billion in stimulus cash for fast trains during an event in Florida, The Associated Press has reported.

Illinois has applied for funding to create high-speed rail with trains going up to 110 mph on existing Amtrak tracks between Chicago and St. Louis. The trains would travel through Springfield.

It's speculated that Florida, California and Illinois are among the favored applicants. Twenty-four states are asking for a combined $50 billion.

State Rep. Elaine Nekritz, who is chair of the Illinois House Railroad Industry Committee, said she was crossing her fingers the state will be successful. A high-speed rail project in Illinois would create jobs and boost economic development, advocates say.

"My gut feeling is that we will get something and I'm optimistic it will be something significant," the Northbrook Democrat said.

Illinois has committed $400 million for high-speed rail in its capital plan.

This summer, the state joined with seven other Midwest states to request funding for a regional network of fast trains with Chicago serving as a hub connecting to destinations such as the Twin Cities and Detroit. Partners include Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota and Missouri.

The fact the president is from Chicago, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood hails from downstate and Federal Railroad Administration Chief Joseph Szabo is from the south suburbs was considered by some as a nexus of influence guaranteeing the region gets funding.

But although Szabo acknowledged Illinois' bid had significant merit, so did other rivals, he said during a visit to Chicago Dec. 15.

Applications will be chosen on the base of merit with FRA officials looking at factors such as ridership numbers, the ability of states to complete the projects and environmental benefits, Szabo said.