Modern countries have high-speed passenger rail service. The US cannot use high speed trains on most of its tracks. Freight companies bought most tracks from Uncle Sam. Freight trains destroy tracks like big trucks beat up highways, for which truckers pay fees.
NYC to LA (3225 rail miles) is 63 Amtrak hours, or 50 MPH. High speed trains today reach 400 mph.
Rail moves freight on 5% as much diesel as a jet.
Uncle Sam: build and hold a transcontinental, high speed rail spine like the interstate highway system and air traffic control system.
Hire veterans, demobilized troops, the unemployed, and youth to build it.
Incentivize business to create USA-made steel rails, high speed ties etc.
Encourage ribs to the spine.
Tell Uncle Sam we want to commute cross-country in 10 hours for $50!