MARCY, N.Y. -- The future of high speed rail was the topic of discussion at a meeting Friday. A week ago, the Utica and Syracuse region learned it would not receive any federal money to upgrade and refurbish tracks.

Last summer, a high speed rail coalition consisting of elected officials and business leaders from across the state was formed. Friday, the group learned more about the project. The business community weighed in on how it will be impacted.

"It's not only passenger, it's freight. How important is that? It's very important. We're talking infrastructure, we're talking very efficient, energy efficient way of transportation," said Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce president Frank Elias.

Informational meetings like this have already happened in Rochester and Buffalo. The next will be in Schenectady.