Amtrak's Plans For California

The national passenger rail corporation announced a $10 billion plan to dramatically improve service in the state.

1 minute read

March 10, 2001, 11:00 AM PST

By California 2000


This week, California policy-makers and Amtrak officials unveiled a new plan to improve rail service throughout the state. The $10 billion plan, which would include straight service between San Francisco and Los Angeles and more frequent service between Sacramento and San Jose, is receiving strong support from state officials. Although a similar bill was rejected in Congress last year, the new plan is expected to pass, partially thanks to Norm Mineta, former Bay Area congressman and now Secretary of Transportation under the Bush administration. The project, which has already gained widespread support, would focus on already popular routes and existing right-of-ways, ensuring increased use and decreasing environmental concerns. The new Amtrak lines would increase train frequency and, by allowing trains to travel up to 125 mph, decrease transit time drastically. Officials hope that the proposed rail lines will encourage rail travel and help relieve congestion problems.

Thanks to California 2000 Project

Wednesday, March 7, 2001 in The Sacramento Bee

courses user

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges. Corey D, Transportation Planner

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges.

Corey D, Transportation Planner

Ready to give your planning career a boost?

SunRail passenger train at platform in Poinciana, Florida.

Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion

The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.

November 24, 2024 - Hoodline

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1, 2024 - Smart Cities Dive

Rendering of proposed housing development on former Desert Pines golf course in East Las Vegas, Nevada.

Las Vegas Golf Course to Become Over 1,000 Units of Affordable Housing

The project is part of an initiative to build affordable housing on shuttered golf courses.

November 20, 2024 - KTNV

Car parked at EV charging station in parking lot in Carlsbad, California.

California Governor Vows to Protect EV Credits

If the federal government eliminates the tax credit for electric vehicles, the governor will need legislative support to restart a state-level incentive program.

December 1 - The Hill

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1 - Smart Cities Dive

Times Square in New York City empty during the Covid-19 pandemic.

NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project

Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.

December 1 - StreetsBlog NYC

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.