By plane, train and automobile, the economic anxiety just keeps on coming.

As oil prices hover at record highs, the GM empire has seen its stocks plunge and some premonitions of possible bankruptcy.

Airlines are also reeling from rising fuel costs, with deep job cuts slated for American Airlines, United and Continental.

So what's a jet-setting, sports-car-driving all-American high-end consumer to do this 4th of July weekend? Maybe start getting around like the rest of us -- the old-fashioned way.

Trains may be making a comeback as a cheaper, more eco-friendly means of transport. Some state and federal policy-makers, environmentalists and industry groups are pushing hard for an expansion of the country's railroad infrastructure. According to recent market research report, a major shift from auto to rail freight transport in the coming years could save hundreds of thousands of tons of air pollution emissions, especially in big cities like New York.

For individuals, that would lead to reduced fuel spending and more efficient commutes. A Sacramento Bee editorial today pushes Congress to look at railroads as one path out of the oil-dependency mire in a pending bill to reauthorize Amtrak.

While Long Island may typify the car-addicted American suburb, some locals seem to be cozying up to the idea. With a $4 sign glaring back at you from the pump, the line at Penn Station never looked so good.