Jocelyn Benson wants to bring high-speed rail to Michigan

Democratic gubernatorial candidate pitches intercity rail network, but funding and logistics remain unclear

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson is proposing to build a high-speed rail network connecting Michigan's largest cities, arguing it would boost the state's economy and talent attraction. However, the details of how to fund and implement such an ambitious infrastructure project remain uncertain, with skeptics questioning the costs and necessity of the plan.

Why it matters

Michigan has long been focused on car-centric transportation, but Benson believes an expanded intercity rail system could be "transformational" for the state's economy by improving connectivity between cities, boosting tourism, and expanding the workforce. The proposal is part of Benson's broader agenda to modernize Michigan's infrastructure and reverse population stagnation.

The details

Benson hasn't specified how she would pay for the rail network, but says she's exploring public-private partnerships and international or multi-state funding sources to avoid tax increases. The state is currently studying potential rail lines between Ann Arbor-Traverse City and Detroit-Lansing-Grand Rapids, but building true high-speed rail like in Asia and Europe would be an enormous undertaking costing billions. Diesel-powered trains on existing freight lines could be a more feasible but slower option. Freight companies that own most of Michigan's rail infrastructure would also need to be on board with increased passenger service.

  • Benson discussed her rail vision in a recent economic development speech in Kalamazoo.
  • The state Department of Transportation is currently studying the feasibility of a Detroit-Lansing-Grand Rapids passenger rail line.

The players

Jocelyn Benson

The Democratic candidate for Michigan governor who is proposing to build a high-speed rail network in the state.

Matt Maddock

A Republican state representative who serves on the House budget committee and is skeptical of Benson's rail plan, arguing taxpayers shouldn't have to fund a service they may not use.

Andy Kunz

The president and CEO of the US High Speed Rail Association, an advocacy group, who notes that true high-speed rail would be a massive undertaking requiring dedicated track and electrical infrastructure.

Eric Goldwyn

An assistant professor at New York University and member of the school's Transit Costs Project, who says high-speed rail lines tend to be profitable at the operating level but the capital costs to build them are difficult to recoup.

Jason Morgan

A Democratic state representative who chairs the bipartisan public transit caucus and has endorsed Benson, arguing expanded rail service could create commuter rail opportunities between cities and surrounding communities.

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What they’re saying

“We need trains about as bad as we need the tax hikes to go with them.”

— Matt Maddock, Republican state representative (Bridge Michigan)

“That isolation that other states have figured out how to build around is something that we have a responsibility to address as well.”

— Jocelyn Benson (Bridge Michigan)

“High-speed lines tend to be profitable at the operating level. The capital costs (to build out the lines) are not. You have to put up a bunch of money, and recouping that money is difficult.”

— Eric Goldwyn, Assistant professor, New York University (Bridge Michigan)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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