The main problem I see in implementing Alan's plan is political. NYC draws commuters from 3 states, NY, NJ, CN, and the metro area stretches from Chesapeake Bay to Boston on the seaward side of the Apppalachians. There are dozens if not hundreds of politican subdivisions in this area.
  The Republicrat and Demican Congress has hamstrung itself with massive debt, and Amtrack, the logical agency is a favorite subject of abuse by the plutocrats in office. I predict endless dithering and fiddling about while the US burns. The only thing our government seems united on is tax advantages for the wealthy at the expense of the middle class, and exporting capital to tax havens.
  Today I'm in my anarchist phase-lets kill 'em all and let God sort it out! How much biodiesel can we make from the average Congressman, Federal Judge and political toady. That fay fat-ass Carl Rove ought to make a few gallons!