California’s long-delayed bullet train slated to run in the Central Valley by 2032, report says

California High-Speed Rail Project Faces Funding Challenges

California’s ambitious high-speed rail project is facing funding challenges as it aims to connect the Central Valley by 2032, but struggles to secure the necessary resources to extend the line north to the San Francisco Bay Area and south to Los Angeles, according to a recent report by officials.

The projected cost of building the high-speed rail line between Gilroy and Palmdale is estimated at $87 billion, with the section expected to be operational by 2038. Originally approved by voters in 2008 with an estimated cost of $33 billion, the project has seen its expenses soar to potentially $128 billion, according to last year’s estimates. An updated cost estimate is set to be released in a forthcoming business report.

Despite 119 miles of construction currently underway in the Central Valley, progress is needed to expand the rail line towards major population centers in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Stable funding sources are crucial to attract private investors, with the project recently engaging with 31 potential investors to explore partnership opportunities.

The Central Valley segment between Merced and Bakersfield is projected to cost nearly $37 billion, with recent cost-saving measures helping to prevent a further increase to $51 billion. The project has received significant funding from the state, including voter-approved bonds and money from California’s cap-and-trade program, as well as federal support. However, the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw $4 billion in funding has posed a setback, leading to legal action by the project’s authority.

Despite challenges and criticism, progress has been made with over $14 billion already invested in the project. Structures such as viaducts, underpasses, and overpasses have been completed in the Central Valley, along with 70 miles of guideway. Governor Gavin Newsom is advocating for the reauthorization of the cap-and-trade program through 2045 to provide consistent funding for high-speed rail.

Conclusion

The California high-speed rail project faces funding hurdles as it strives to connect major cities in the state. Despite setbacks and escalating costs, efforts are ongoing to secure resources and partnerships to realize the vision of a modern transportation system for California.

Sophie Austin, The Associated Press