California High-Speed Rail Hits Milestone

California High-Speed Rail has hit a milestone of 10,000 green, union jobs on program construction in the Central Valley, according to U.S. High-Speed Rail Association's news release.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority marked the milestone in Fresno, California, along with federal, state, local, and union leaders. 

The California High-Speed Rail project has been nationally recognized with the Envision Platinum rating from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure. Approximately 95% of construction waste will be recycled.

The program has generated more than $12 billion in economic activity and more than $5 billion in employment income. The jobs impact extends far beyond the Central Valley, with over $195 million invested in 42 states with companies and employees working on the program.

“California high-speed rail is sending a powerful message that a sustainable, zero-emission transportation project can generate thousands of good jobs, and renewed prosperity for working Americans, with or without a college degree,” said Ray LaHood, former U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary.