Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
High-speed rail

Talking Headways Podcast: High-Speed Rail Lessons from France and Germany

france_germany_hsr
In France, the high-speed rail system is designed to provide the fastest possible connections to a single city, Paris, while in Germany the rail network has more connections but slower trips. Graphic: Eric Eidlin
podcast icon logo

This week we’re joined by Eric Eidlin, a community planner and sustainability lead at the Federal Transit Administration. Over the last few years Eric has also been studying high-speed rail in Germany and France as a fellow with the German Marshall Fund. He recently published a report, "Making the Most of High-Speed Rail in California: Lessons from France and Germany."

Eric discusses the differences between the French and German systems and what we can learn from each. He delves into the importance of station location, land uses for station areas, integrating walking and biking with stations, and having a 50-year view of planning these projects. And of course, you won’t want to miss lessons for California’s planned system going forward.

As always, you can find us on iTunes or Stitcher if you want to subscribe directly.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Wednesday’s Headlines Have Consequences

The Trump administration's actions on climate change have consequences for future generations. Industries might not like what they get in return.

February 18, 2026

Trump’s Canada Bridge Tantrum Could Be Bad News For An International Bike Trail

A multi-use trail along the Gordie Howe Bridge would be a key component of an epic cross-continental trail route — if Trump doesn't prevent the entire structure from opening.

February 17, 2026

Disturbing Utah ‘Bikelash’ Bill Takes Aim at Salt Lake City Traffic Calming

Utah state legislators aren't traffic engineers — so why are they writing laws that would force the review of specific bike lanes already on the roads in their capitol, and preemptively stop Salt Lake from building more?

February 17, 2026

The Explainer: How Big Tech Push For Cheap Car Insurance Hurts Victims

In New York State, Gov. Kathy Hochul is distorting the notion of "affordability" to do Big Tech's bidding.

February 17, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines Let Kids Be Kids

Cops should not be arresting parents for letting their kids walk or bike around the neighborhood.

February 17, 2026

Monday’s Headlines Slow Down

Cities have proven measures they can put into place to slow down speeding drivers and save lives.

February 16, 2026
See all posts