Support for CA High-Speed Rail Drops, But Desire for Benefits Remains Strong

As cost estimates for California's high-speed rail system have risen, public support for the project has dropped. But desire for the project's predicted benefits remains strong.

1 minute read

October 6, 2013, 9:00 AM PDT

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj


"A majority of Californians don’t want the state’s controversial high-speed rail line, says a recent poll for USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times," reports Isabel Angell. "But at the same time, over two thirds of the voters surveyed said they think the project would create jobs and help the state’s economy. And 61% said a high-speed rail line would help reduce traffic at airports and on the highways."

No doubt, the project's repeatedly delayed start date has contributed to the growing angst.

 

Wednesday, October 2, 2013 in WNYC: Transportation Nation

Young Professional

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

September 23, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

Passengers board an Amtrak train under a cloudy sky.

Amtrak, CN end decades-long dispute with eight-year agreement

The new operating agreement establishes an updated framework for the companies to work together, including processes to resolve disputes.

September 18, 2026 - Mass Transit

The Gross Reservoir, a large body of water surrounded by trees and mountains.

Judges permit Denver to divert 77,000 acre feet from the Colorado River for reservoir expansion

Overuse and climate change have caused the Colorado River’s water levels to plummet.

September 18, 2026 - Inside Climate News

Five people squat by a tree in NYC, helping to care for it.

NYC plants over 18,000 trees, the most new foliage in a decade

Many of the trees were planted in communities vulnerable to extreme heat.

15 minutes ago - AM NY

Gov. Gavin Newsom speaking behind a podium, pointing a finger upwards. The American and California flags are behind him.

New bill requires California data center developers to create water scarcity plans

Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed 7 bills intended to give California communities more information about the impact of proposed data centers.

1 hour ago - Smart Cities Dive

Two women sit inside a Metropolitan Transit System streetcar.

San Diego may kill one-third of its bus routes as budget crisis looms

Under the city's proposed plan, 21% of Metropolitan Transit System riders would lose access to transit services.

2 hours ago - San Diego Union-Tribune