California resident rails against bullet train construction in her own backyard
As the Trump administration continues to investigate California’s bullet train project, which has faced criticism for its lack of progress over the past 17 years, residents in a small area north of Fresno are experiencing a living nightmare due to the ongoing construction.
Dalia Pena, a resident of Madera County, California, described the construction of an overpass for cars in her backyard as a major eyesore and a disruptive force in her once-quiet neighborhood. The construction has brought loud noises, vibrations, and disturbances that have made life difficult for Pena and her neighbors.
“They were out here doing construction at 6 o’clock on Saturday mornings,” Pena said, recalling the constant drilling noises that plagued the area. While the noise has slightly improved, Pena remains concerned about the potential for further disruptions as construction progresses. The construction has even affected her ability to use her backyard pool due to the proximity of the worksite.
In addition to the noise and disruption, Pena discovered that the construction encroached on her property, as indicated by a survey she had conducted. Despite attending a meeting about the project in February 2024, Pena felt that she was not adequately informed about the construction itself, given its close proximity to her property.
The California High-Speed Rail Authority stated that they had provided proper public notice to residents through prior meetings and that the construction is expected to be completed by fall. However, Pena expressed frustration with the lack of accountability from the contractors regarding noise, dust, and worker behavior.
Pena has reached out to California Governor Gavin Newsom and the Trump administration to address what she views as a waste of taxpayer dollars and a disregard for the well-being of residents. She called for an investigation into the project and emphasized the need for action to address the ongoing issues.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently visited Union Station in Los Angeles to criticize the project and initiate a compliance audit, citing the lack of progress despite years of investment. Congressman Kevin Kiley echoed these sentiments, describing the project as a financial burden on taxpayers without delivering tangible results.
Despite attempts to reach out to the California High-Speed Rail Authority for comment, they did not respond in time for publication. The ongoing construction in Madera County serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and disruptions faced by residents living near the bullet train project, highlighting the need for accountability and effective communication from those involved in the construction process.
