Here is a look at some of the transportation headlines gathered by us and the Metro Library. The full list of headlines is posted on the library’s blog.

U.S. not dense enough for high-speed rail? Think again (Per Square Mile)

A common critique of proposals for a U.S. high speed rail system is that our nation’s population is much more thinly distributed than countries with successful high speed rail systems. Per Square Mile disputes this with some data that shows that many states are actually denser than those overseas high speed rail success stories. California, for example, is denser than Spain. In other words: if it works there, why not here?

Metrolink crossing to get $6-million upgrade (L.A. Times)

A rail crossing in Glendale is getting a major overhaul after officials identified it as the most potentially dangerous crossing in the system. Why is it so dangerous? The combination heavy road and rail traffic — including propane tanker trucks — make the potential for an explosive deadly collision particularly high.

Your Commute Is Killing You (Slate)

Research proves it: long commutes are ruining our lives — physically, emotionally and psychologically. A few of the many negative byproducts of long commutes include divorce, loneliness, obesity and pain. The irony is that many endure long commutes in exhange for what is suppossed to bring happiness: large houses and lots of space away from the crowds of the city.