High-Speed Rail May Be On Hold

With the recent economic slowdown and energy crisis, California legislators are looking to cut budget expenditures, and the state's high-speed rail plans is expected to be a target.

1 minute read

May 17, 2001, 1:00 PM PDT

By California 2000


The future of a $26 billion high-speed rail project, which would link Sacramento, the Bay Area, Los Angeles and San Diego, is in jeopardy. To date, California lawmakers have allocated $5 million to fund three environmental reviews required for the project. Now the high-speed rail board is asking for an additional $14 million for the roposed 700-mile system. But with kyrocketing energy prices and a eclining economy, state lawmakers will e cutting at least $1.5 billion rom initial budget proposals. Some policy akers predict the cuts could each $6 billion in 2002-2003. High-speed rail supporters fear that the project will be cut back or dropped in order to save money. Some officials expect that a high-speed rail system will have to be built sooner or later to relieve airport and freeway congestion.

Thanks to California 2000 Project

Monday, May 14, 2001 in Contra Costa Times-Walnut Creek

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