A proposal is making waves that could let trucks roll onto trains and travel coast to coast in just three days. AmeriStarRail, a private group, says their "Transcontinental Chief" could run from New York to Los Angeles, offering faster transit for both truckers and passengers.

How it would work: Truckers would be able to drive their rigs right onto a special high-speed rail service. Once aboard, drivers could use dining, sleeping, and other Amtrak-style amenities while their trucks travel the rails.

• The plan includes stops in Harrisburg, Chicago, and even by the Grand Canyon.
• AmeriStarRail wants the trains running by May 2026, lining up with the U.S. 250th anniversary and the FIFA World Cup.
• They say the project would use private funding, without extra cost to taxpayers.

Behind the pitch: The company sent an open letter about the project to Amtrak and federal leaders, hoping to turn Amtrak’s money-losing long routes into profit makers with help from the private sector.

The plan is similar to systems in Europe, where trucks hop on trains for tough stretches of road. Some see it as a way to cut down on long highway miles, accidents, and stress, reported Newsweek.

Amtrak hasn’t responded yet. If it goes forward, truckers could see a whole new option for long-distance hauling in the near future.