When is a Solution Politically Feasible?: Maglev Rail and Intercity Traffic Congestion

More and more people are using planes, trains, and automobiles. Traffic congestion plagues both highways and airports, making travel between cities more problematic with the passage of time. Gridlock and winglock are becoming part of American life. High-tech solutions to congestion exist. One is the maglev train, which can reach speeds of up to 300 mph (486 kph). This article examines 2 periods in the last 30 years in which maglev was considered as a possible solution to transportation congestion. However, in both instances, the coupling was not made between problem and solution. It is argued that although technicalfeasibility and economics are crucial, a successful solution requires three political elements: affordability, acceptability, and accessibility. The failure of maglev is explained in terms of the requisite components of a successful solution.