Rather than making choices for people, this process is about providing people with more choices. Of course, challenges exist. Cost is a major concern, but it is important to realize that whatever path is taken will involve cost of some kind. When Mayor P.R. Olgiati was trying to get the funds to build the bridge across the Tennessee River that now bears his name, someone told him that the money wasn't available for the roads on either end. He told them that if we got the bridge, we would get the roads.
Regional cooperation is essential to enhancing the quality of life for future generations.
In March 1998, an Atlanta-Chattanooga Regional Collaborative summit was held to further coordinate cooperative efforts. The advent of high-speed rail in the United States is virtually a foregone conclusion. Decisions must be made as to whether our region gets on board now or watches the rail line pass us by. The ultimate goal is for Chatlanta to be known as the most sustainable and competitive region in America, with the highest quality of life and greatest opportunities for all of its citizens. The train will carry much more than just passengers.