Mary Ellen Curto

Ms. Curto is one the Founders of the American High Speed Rail Alliance and is responsible for setting the vision and direction of the Alliance. Through Ms. Curto’s vision and leadership the Alliance was established to provide advocacy, grassroots support and public information and awareness. She believes that with 71 percent of the oil in the U.S. consumed in transportation, shifting our national transportation policy to clean high speed trains will go a long way toward a healthier economy that is less dependent on oil, while making personal travel more enjoyable and business travel more productive. A long time high speed rail advocate, Ms. Curto brings 25 years of successful business experience to AHSRA - and provides the senior leadership and an ambitious vision for sustainable transportation in America, which includes: Decrease dependence on oil. Today’s intercity rail service consumes one-third less energy per passenger-mile than cars. Provide more travel options and make transportation more affordable. Passenger rail is a practical alternative to driving and flying and can help reduce the high costs associated with private vehicles – costs that are creating a growing economic burden for individuals and families. Build vital, healthy communities and promote responsible economic development. Passenger rail investments, coupled with sound local planning, catalyze sustainable economic development as a much-needed alternative to highway-dependent sprawl. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation is the largest and fastest growing source of global warming pollution. Investing in rail is essential to building a cleaner transportation system. She was also previously: Owner, Chief Operating Officer of GGA Architects in Washington D.C.; Director of Finance and Administration, IEEE, Washington DC. and Director of Satellite Distribution, National Public Radio, Washington D.C.