In order to become a fast, safe and affordable alternative to car travel, local and regional public transport is in desperate need of funding.

Yes! But it is not either/or but both/and. His views of economics might preclude doing either, but, so long as there is significant unemployment in the EU, with appropriate actions by governments and monetary authorities, the infrastructure can be built and so doing will benefit the economy during and after the construction without increasing inflation, though inflation could be caused by other factors, including increased resource costs. Unfortunately, public adherence to neo-liberal economic views will likely prevent such sane actions.

A tragic example is the terrible commuter-train accident in Belgium earlier this year. Belgium is investing millions of euro in HSR, and at the same time the safety standard of local trains has deteriorated to a point where lives are placed at risk.

So, has train travel become more dangerous in Belgium than car travel? And, again, it is not really an either/or choice unless Belgium is at full employment.  

"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."