A proposed 800 mile high speed rail corridor in California has recently been projected at $98.5 billion, more than twice the previous estimate. This could result in passenger trains traveling 220 miles per hour and could reduce congestion on clogged California highways. The cost of the project has caused Republicans, who once supported the initiative, to now raise questions and propose a freeze and audit, according to Rep. John Mica (R-Fla.), chairman of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The Obama administration and House Democrats continue to push the project. Rep. Jim Costa (D-Cal.) believes that now is the time to move forward, given low interest rates and inflation.
I am interested in this project because I think high speed rail helps raise the standard of living in our country. It also helps reduce congestion, which can reduce the number of truck accidents and other collisions on our roads.