The Train Is Coming!

A high-speed train has been proposed for the Yucatan Peninsula, with the second phase connecting Cancun to Tulum.  Mexico's new President, Enrique Pena Nieto, presented the Merida-Punta Venado Trans-Peninsular Train project, to be built under a concession or public-private partnership.  It is a key priority, emphasizing his commitment to improved infrastructure.  The train will use existing tracks that will be modernized.  The project will enable passenger travel as well as facilitate trade and shipping of merchandise from Yucatan to Quintana Roo.  A modern, diesel-powered train, carrying up to 400 passengers and traveling at 100-110 miles per hour, will be used for the routes.  The high-speed line will also connect tourists to the region's most significant Maya sites and travel times will be coordinated with the arrival of cruise ships.