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California High-Speed Rail Cost Soars to $126 Billion Amid Doubts

4/6/2026

Center

Newsom Questions Rail

The high-speed rail cost rose from $33 billion to about $126 billion.
A resurfaced 2014 video shows Gavin Newsom, then-Lieutenant Governor, doubting the project's viability.
Delays arise from environmental regulations, legal disputes, and funding issues as California targets the Central Valley.
The federal funding outlook remains uncertain after U.S. President Donald Trump rescinded $4 billion in grants.
Public comments on the draft 2026 business plan run through April 29, 2026.

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California Proposes Rail

California officials propose a new high-speed rail station near Merced to improve access to Yosemite National Park and save over $1 billion by avoiding costly construction and property acquisitions.
The site would be four miles from downtown Merced.
Local leaders express mixed feelings about potential impacts on Merced's infrastructure and downtown.
Regulatory approvals pose a hurdle, but supporters say the plan could benefit commuters and tourists.

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Newsom Questions Rail

The high-speed rail cost rose from $33 billion to about $126 billion.
A resurfaced 2014 video shows Gavin Newsom, then-Lieutenant Governor, doubting the project's viability.
Delays arise from environmental regulations, legal disputes, and funding issues as California targets the Central Valley.
The federal funding outlook remains uncertain after U.S. President Donald Trump rescinded $4 billion in grants.
Public comments on the draft 2026 business plan run through April 29, 2026.

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