Train travel isn’t just for liberals

In a growing state, we need long-term thinking — and rail deserves a place in the conversation.

I took the train to Raleigh last week — a quick up-and-back from Charlotte. Maybe you’ve done this trip before. It’s not bad.

The ride took about the same time as driving, but it was a lot more productive. You’ve got a good bit of elbow room to work, you’re not stressed in traffic, and you can send off a few emails even with spotty Wi-Fi.

On a Wednesday, I was surprised to find that the train was full both ways. Still, the limited schedule makes it hard to rely on. Train travel in North Carolina is still a novelty — something you do for a special event or a one-off trip, not a daily necessity.

But sitting there on the train, I got to thinking about what rail travel could and should be. North Carolina leaders have talked for decades about building better train service along the I-85 corridor: More departures, and maybe even high-speed rail. Every time, the idea gets brushed off — too expensive, too European, too unrealistic. Conservatives especially tend to roll their eyes.

I get it. Cali…