Michigan News
(2009-06-15)
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This Mag Lev train transports people to and from Shanghai's Pudong International Airport
(Courtesy of Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, China)
State lawmakers this week will take a look at whether a cutting edge public transportation system has a future in Michigan.
A public hearing is scheduled today in East Lansing.
Magnetic Levitation, or Maglev trains ride on a magnetic cushion to float along a track at high speeds. There are a few small scale Maglev trains running in Europe and Asia. A promoter says he is looking for private investment to fund the 2 billion dollar project linking Detroit, Ann Arbor and Lansing. The state must approve the train's proposed route along interstate highways.
State representative Bill Rogers says the idea is intriguing.
"I would prefer that the feds don't print anymore money if we can accomplish something and have it privately funded," Rogers, "And we're on to the newer technology. I think it needs a serious look."
The Maglev project is competing with light-rail and high speed train proposals being promoted in southeast Michigan. Those proposals are much less expensive. © Copyright 2010, Michigan Radio
