All around the world, 50 high speed rail systems are already working to help shrink international carbon footprints. High speed rail is proven to be one of the most sustainable ways of moving people quickly to and from metropolitan areas. Yet, the US has been slow to put this mode of travel in motion. Even as 13 congressional corridors have been approved, The State of California has managed to stay on the fast track. This seminar will examine sustainability and demonstrate how high speed rail can be utilized to meet its goals. Premier international high speed rail systems will be highlighted and discussed. The progress of California’s high speed rail efforts and accomplishments will be presented in detail. Finally, challenges and barriers to advancing high speed rail projects in the US and the NY regional will be scrutinized and consideration will be given as to what must still be done to ensure success.