CALIFORNIA – Representative Kevin Kiley (R-CA) announced, December 11, plans to introduce a bill to eliminate federal funding for the California High-Speed Rail project.

“The Department of Government Efficiency recently highlighted the project’s substantial delays and cost overruns, along with the $6.8 billion in federal funding it has received and the $8 billion in additional funding that has been requested,” said Kiley in a statement.

Kiley’s bill would make the project ineligible for any further federal funding.

As of 2024 zero passengers have been transported

According to the California High Speed Rail website, when completed, Phase 1 of the high-speed rail system will run from San Francisco to the Los Angeles basin in under three hours at speeds capable of exceeding 200 miles per hour. 

Kiley says the High-Speed Rail Project was originally projected in 2008 to cost $33 billion. It is now projected to cost up to $127.9 billion

“It’s estimated completion date was 2020 of course we are past 2020. Now as of 2024 zero passengers have been transported. Indeed the majority of the system has not even been fully designed and yet it has received $6.8 billion in federal funds and they’re requesting an additional 8 billion in federal funds,” said Kiley on the House Floor.

The project has faced delays due to funding shortages, rising costs, and challenges with land acquisition and environmental reviews. 

In addition, legal challenges and inconsistent management have further extended timelines, with the initial segment now expected to be completed by 2033.

Money for roads

Kiley says he supports funding to improve the condition of California roads and infrastructure.

“Our share of federal transportation funding should go towards real infrastructure needs, such as improving roads that rank among the worst in the country,” said Kiley.

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