HSR is definitely cool. But it's not the important part of the equation. While we have high speed capable trains here in Switzerland, we don't technically have HSR. And that's a good thing, for Switzerland.
The important thing is that the push to build HSR doesn't take funding away from the local networks. If you lose a dependable local network (bus, tram, local trains), then HSR can end up being a mess. See Germany and DB for a great example of how NOT to do things.
Excellent framing of the path dependence problem. The Hong Kong Rail + Property model point is especially sharp because it shows land-use capture isnt just financing, it's the actuall mechanism for creating the dense catchments HSR needs to work. I've been watching California's project struggle with exactly this issue where stations end up surrounded by parking lots instead of development. The growth paradox angle dunno gets enough attention in transit debates.
HSR is definitely cool. But it's not the important part of the equation. While we have high speed capable trains here in Switzerland, we don't technically have HSR. And that's a good thing, for Switzerland.
The important thing is that the push to build HSR doesn't take funding away from the local networks. If you lose a dependable local network (bus, tram, local trains), then HSR can end up being a mess. See Germany and DB for a great example of how NOT to do things.
This video covers those particular issues: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8y9hGofgy9c
The same guy also produced a follow-up video as to why small countries might indeed want HSR.
Excellent framing of the path dependence problem. The Hong Kong Rail + Property model point is especially sharp because it shows land-use capture isnt just financing, it's the actuall mechanism for creating the dense catchments HSR needs to work. I've been watching California's project struggle with exactly this issue where stations end up surrounded by parking lots instead of development. The growth paradox angle dunno gets enough attention in transit debates.