Trump Administration Investigates $4B California High-Speed Rail Funding

The Trump administration has initiated an investigation into California's high-speed rail project, potentially threatening the withdrawal of about $4 billion in federal funding. Originally approved in 2008 with a budget of $33 billion and a completion target of 2020, the project has faced significant cost overruns and delays, now estimated to total around $106 billion by its expected completion in 2033. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the need to verify whether the California High-Speed Rail Authority has adhered to its funding commitments, stating that if not, the funds might be redirected to other infrastructure projects. The project currently focuses on a 171-mile stretch between Bakersfield and Merced. Despite the challenges, California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri expressed confidence in the project's accountability and its job creation impact. The Biden administration had previously restored nearly $1 billion in funding and allocated an additional $3.3 billion in December 2023, highlighting the fluctuating support for the initiative.