SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Two state legislators are pushing for a re-vote on the controversial California high-speed rail project, saying the public should have a say on whether to continue funding the bullet train, the Santa Clarita Valley Signal reported.
Vidak’s measure would allow Californians to vote on whether they want to continue funding the HSR project, which is estimated to cost $100 billion to complete, and would immediately freeze any further spending on the project until after a vote on June 7, 2016. If approved by voters, any unspent HSR dollars would be redirected to repair and/or construct new state highways and local streets and roads.
“The high-speed rail of today is not what the voters approved in 2008,” said bill sponsor state Sen. Andy Vidak, R-Hanford, in a statement announcing the effort this week. “Californians deserve the right to re-vote on this massive transportation project that could end up costing hundreds of billions of dollars if it is ever completed. The money would be better spent on local roads and highways."
The measure, which is co-authored by Assemblyman Rudy Salas, D-Bakersfield, would have to be approved by a two-thirds vote in the state Legislature and a majority vote of the public, the report said.
The high-speed rail project has been contentious statewide, including in the Santa Clarita Valley, where residents and elected officials have raised numerous concerns with its potential impacts on communities and the environment, SCVS reported.
Funding for the purchase of the railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars Gov. Josh Shapiro allocated in November 2025 to support urgent safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.
With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving.
The final seven-mile segment of the 2 Line includes new stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park and connects to the 1 Line at the International District/Chinatown Station. The Link light rail system now spans 63 miles and includes 50 stations.
From March 29 through May 9, shuttle buses will replace train service between Bridgeport Station and Norristown Transit Center. Train service will operate as normal between Bridgeport Station and 69th Street Transit Center.
Nadine S. Lee, who has served as president/CEO since July 2021, said the decision comes after careful reflection on the agency’s progress and its path forward.
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.
As part of the contract, the AECOM-LiRo NYPennT Joint Venture will work with Amtrak and the selected Master Developer to completely transform Penn Station, improving safety and operational efficiency, making the system more family-friendly, accommodating increased train and passenger capacity, and delivering a world-class experience to its growing passenger base, according to Amtrak officials.
