“A major new high-speed rail line will generate many thousands of construction jobs over several years, as well as permanent jobs for rail employees and increased economic activity in the destinations these trains serve.”     

- President Barack Obama on April 16, 2009

President Barack Obama is joined by Vice President Joe Biden, 
US DOT Secretary Ray LaHood, and others on April 16, 2009 to announce his "Vision for High Speed Rail in America."

According to a 2006 Midwest Regional Rail Initiative Report, the Quad Cities will experience economic and job growth resulting from a comprehensive intercity and high speed Midwest passenger rail network.

Quad Cities Economic Impact
• 550 - 825 jobs
• $11 - $16 million increase in household income
• $52 - $75 million increase in area property values

Illinois Total Economic Impact
• 24,200 jobs
• $480 million increase in household income
• $2.23 billion increase in area property values

Iowa Total Economic Impact
• 1,000 jobs
• $17 million increase in household income
• $67 million increase in area property values

Download the 2006 Midwest Regional Rail Initiative Economic Impact Report