The Trump administration has launched a compliance review into California’s high-speed-rail project, focusing on $4 billion in federal funding for construction in the Central Valley, and also examining grants related to Green New Deal and social justice initiatives, according to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Despite challenges such as budget overruns and delays, the project has generated $22 billion in economic impact and provided over 14,000 jobs, with the High-Speed Rail Authority standing by its progress and impact. The potential federal defunding of high-speed rail could have a significant impact on the state, requiring additional taxpayer support to complete ongoing projects, as concerns arise regarding the project’s future under the current administration’s scrutiny and skepticism.
Full Article