If regional trains can overlay present LD train routes then most of us probably would like that. Let us look at the one overlay daytime train the Palmetto. It covers the Virginia - Savannah in daytime that the Silvers do not. I would recommend that it at least extend to JAX and if enough sleepers ever get on Amtrak roster then on to south Florida with daytime arrivals starting about West Palm Beach. Unfortunately JAX will probably mean another train set.
So what are some of these possibilities ? ATL = NYP, CHI = MSP, DEN - CHI, CHI - Cleveland / Buffalo, CHI - MEM, ATL - Nashville / Fulton, STL - Dallas/ FtWorth, CHI - MSP, LAX - PHX/Tucson, CHI - Kansas City, SEA - Spokane .
This of course is dependent on Amtrak getting the funds and equipment to implement these trains. I list trains only on present routes to keep the problems of initiating trains on new routes slightly more in the future. This really needs the support of all of us to push congress to completely implement the FY 2021 grant request in the full amount and preferably about $2B more. Note Amtrak does anticipate a total increase I n the number of revenue cars.
The request has several changes in the law that are more important than even the money request. Amtrak control of on time performance. the preference for Amtrak trains, require RRs to justify their funds to implement more service, grants to increase sidings and not delay both passenger and freights ( Probably aimed at NS ) grants remain in effect over end of FY, Change in the food rule, eliminate the 750 mile rule, ability to get high cost grants ( ex gateway ), require RRs to justify delays every year, no RR can refuse to carry Amtrak trains even if not original 1071 RR., partial funding from highway trust funds at same 90 / 10 ratio, investment tax credit for RR improvements to speed up passenger trains, additional grants to eliminate RR grade crossings,