Highlights from Chapter 1:

Updates and Highlights

With federal and state funding sources beginning to open up, we are updating our funding strategies to move the high-speed rail project forward. New, more stable funding provides the opportunity for:

• • Eliminating consideration of a single-track option on service between Merced, Fresno and Bakersfield;
  • Advancing design statewide after each project section is environmentally cleared, preparing the sections for future construction funding; and
  • Making targeted investments statewide to provide early benefits and advance future connectivity, particularly in shared corridors.

COVID-19 affected the timing and cadence of our business plans. Given that the 2020 Business Plan was submitted to the Legislature in April 2021, the 2022 Business Plan provides an update on only what has transpired since then, such as important progress being made to environmentally clear the full 500-mile system. It also provides limited adjustments to the capital cost estimates for the full system, with a more comprehensive analysis to come in the 2023 Project Update Report.