California's high-speed rail project has revealed an ambitious map for its future network, which would connect the state's major cities to Nevada via rail.
The state recently entered the track-laying phase of its high-speed rail construction, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to outline new plans for future track that would extend to Las Vegas.
Why It Matters
California's high-speed rail project is already the largest in the U.S., and the new expansion reinforces the state's long-term commitment to investing in rail. However, its current projects have already been plagued with delays and expanding budgets, making the expansion a concern for some.
Millions of California residents have been forced to abandon their homes as wildfires ravage Los Angeles County. More than 100,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate. Red flag warnings are in place for Los Angeles and much of Ventura County, and they will be extended through Thursday. At least five people have lost their lives, Newsom said, as the wind-driven wildfires remain largely uncontained.
What To Know
Newsom unveiled the State Rail Plan on January 7, with the aim of connecting every region of the state by rail by 2050.
The state was already committed to over 500 miles of high-speed rail between Los Angeles and San Francisco, but the new plan would see greater developments in the north and east, connecting the large urban areas with smaller cities and towns.
In a map published by state officials, one route can be seen stretching to Las Vegas, connecting Nevada to Los Angeles by rail directly.
The completed network, which officials have said will be zero-emission, is designed to increase rail use in California by 18 percent, reducing reliance on cars.
The announcement comes as new breakthroughs in the state's current high-speed rail project mark 2025 as the first year tracklaying can begin. The current project will link San Francisco in the north to Anaheim via Los Angeles, while plans to extend the line will connect Sacramento to San Diego.
That means the new State Rail Plan is a significant expansion on the current routes under construction, with several new stops and interstate connections.
What People Are Saying
California Governor Gavin Newsom: "By 2050, every Californian should be able to choose rail as a way to get to their destination, near or far. Our rail plan is ambitious, but as the world's fifth largest economy bursting with talent and innovation, we're ready to take on this challenge."
The California High-Speed Rail Authority told Newsweek: "Initial track work is estimated to begin by spring 2025, with installation of mainline turnouts, work that includes laying a siding track, a parallel track that allows BNSF trains to pull off the mainline and out of the way of the work.
"The Authority will be issuing a request for proposals to procure a contract for Track and Overhead Contact System construction and expects to award a contract by fourth quarter 2025."
What Happens Next
The first high-speed rail services in California are expected to start between 2030 and 2033. The entire route is aiming to come online by 2050.
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