A new alliance is putting Erie at the forefront of bringing high-speed rail services throughout the country.

All Aboard Erie on Tuesday announced the creation of the Lakeshore Rail Alliance.

It involves seven passenger rail organizations from Chicago to New York City.

All Aboard Erie was chosen to head the alliance because of its location between the Midwest and east coast.

The organization also announced Michael Furhman will take over as its new executive director.

"We built a rail line from coast to coast, yet we have probably one of the worst passenger train trail services," said Furhman. "We need to change that. It makes good business sense, it makes good environmental sense, and the time is now."

Furhman previously served as executive director of Destination Erie.