Legislators upset with changes to Calif. high-speed rail construction
The reason for the change of plan is that the segment between Bakersfield and the Los Angeles basin is far more geologically complex, and will require a series of tunnels to be bored that will inevitably lead to delays and extra expense.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The 2016 business draft by the California High-Speed Rail Authority, which changes the southern segment from Merced to the San Fernando Valley to a northern-oriented route, has some California legislators up in arms, the Merced Sun-Star reports.
The reason for the change of plan is that the segment between Bakersfield and the Los Angeles basin is far more geologically complex, and will require a series of tunnels to be bored that will inevitably lead to delays and extra expense, SFist reports. The idea is build the cheaper northern section first, with a new injection of federal funds to electrify the Caltrain tracks between San Jose and San Francisco, and allow more time to identify funding for the more expensive southern segment.
Jeff Morales, the authority’s CEO, expressed regret for failing to advise leaders of the changes ahead of time. For the full story, click here.
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