POWV: Bringing High-Speed Rail from Pittsburgh to Columbus
Building a new vision for the PA, OH, and WV Tri-State Area
POWV: Bringing High-Speed Rail from Pittsburgh to Columbus
Building a new vision for the PA, OH, and WV Tri-State Area
About POWV
Our Mission
POWV LLC proposes a transformative infrastructure project to develop a high-speed rail system connecting the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, with a primary line running from Pittsburgh, PA to Columbus, OH.
This project aims to enhance regional connectivity, promote economic growth, reduce environmental impact, and improve the quality of life for residents across these states. This is a primary ‘right of way’ which was preserved for HSR in the 1980’s via the actions of proactive rail workers who leveraged the existing laws to protect it for future HSR usage.
Why HSR in this region?
The tri-state region of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia is at the U.S. population center point, within a few hundred miles of the nation’s largest metro areas, including New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, DC, Philadelphia and more. The region also offers several other natural reasons for investment including the primary East-West road corridor (I-70, and the original National Road it is built upon), the Ohio River (3rd largest river in the country, and feeding into the Mississippi River), and plentiful natural resources (Coal, Iron Ore, and Natural Gas). Just look at the Pittsburgh Steelers logo to define what the region was built upon and how the region built America.
The region encompasses a population of hard-working, blue-collar individuals who stand ready to learn new trades and deliver results with wages well below the national average. Pittsburgh and Columbus have both been successful in transforming their economies from blue-collar to white-collar via Tech, Finance, Healthcare and other industries, though many families and individuals have been left struggling.
They have leading universities in Carnegia Mellon, U. of Pittsburgh, West Virginia University, Ohio State University, Ohio University and others. Each of these higher learning institutions attract and grow top talent. For better or worse, the top talent is often harvested by other regions, i.e. SF, NYC, Chicago, due to opportunity.
This an opportunity to not only tap into the natural and historic strengths, but to also bring together amazing minds and dedicated labor to transform a region and serve as a roadmap for other regions across the United States.
Key Objectives:
- Economic Development: Spur economic growth by improving access to jobs, education, and services, and by attracting businesses to the region. Beyond the initial investment of construction, the project promises to revitalize a region that is ready to welcome additional investments and new industries.
- Transportation Efficiency: Provide a fast, reliable, and sustainable alternative to road and air travel. Imagine going from Pittsburgh to Columbus in an hour via rail. It opens up opportunities for business and leisure.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels by promoting the use of clean, electric-powered transportation. HSR is the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation for a 100-500 mile distance, of which this route fits in the lower end where it’s most beneficial.
- Social Connectivity: Strengthen ties between communities, making it easier for residents to travel for work, leisure, and family visits. Imagine living in Columbus and being at a Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates game in an hour via a train ride.