The Southeast Minnesota Rail Alliance is asking backers of a proposed high-speed rail line to help come up with a name for the train.

The final route for a proposed high-speed rail line from Chicago to the Twin Cities has yet to be determined. And there is plenty of competition among communities as to where that train should go. Cities along the Mississippi River like Winona and Red Wing want to see this proposed high-speed train run along the existing rail line. But Rochester rail backers are pushing hard to make sure the Med City is a stop on the line.

Despite all the uncertainties, Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede, a member of the alliance, is calling on residents to submit name ideas.

“We are calling on the collective creativity of Southeast Minnesota residents to help name the train,” he is quoted as saying in a news release. “Names might note our unique geological characteristics, rich history, regional wildlife or notable industries. But we are looking for all ideas, including those that are considered ‘outside-the-box.’”

Residents can submit their ideas here. Suggestions will be accepted through Dec. 31 and updates will be available on the organization's Facebook page and via Twitter updates from @semnrail.

Name ideas so far include "Silver Fox" and "Spirit of Rochester."

Post-Bulletin,  by Heather Carlson, 12/7/09

Additional coverage: Post-Bulletin

Tags: name the train, Railroad, Railroad