A proposed rail service could give travelers a new way to cross the United States: boarding in Los Angeles and reaching the New York area without changing long-distance trains. Called the Transcontinental Chief, AmeriStarRail’s concept promises a journey of less than 72 hours—but it still faces significant hurdles before passengers can climb aboard.

The company originally proposed a May 10, 2026, debut. That deadline passed without the service launching. AmeriStarRail’s chief operating officer, Scott Spencer, told USA TODAY that the company is now aiming for May 2028, ahead of the Los Angeles Summer Olympics. That remains a target, rather than a confirmed opening date.

The proposed journey would pass through cities including Chicago, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg. Its eastern endpoint, however, would be Hoboken Terminal in New Jersey, rather than a station in Manhattan. Travelers heading into New York City would complete the final leg by PATH train or ferry.

AmeriStarRail’s ambitions also extend beyond passenger transportation. The proposal includes carrying personal vehicles and entire tractor-trailers, combining long-distance passenger travel with vehicle and freight transport. These features are part of the company’s proposed operating model, not services currently available on the Transcontinental Chief.

Securing an Amtrak partnership remains a central obstacle. Amtrak previously declined the proposal, saying the material it reviewed did not establish a sufficient business case. Spencer says AmeriStarRail continues to pursue support, but the partnership and operating agreements needed to launch remain unresolved.

Travelers can already make a coast-to-coast journey using connecting Amtrak services. The appeal of this proposal is the chance to stay aboard one long-distance service for the crossing. For now, though, anyone imagining that journey in 2028 should treat it as a project to watch, rather than a confirmed travel option.