Alameda County
California High Speed Rail Moves to Track-Laying Phase; Will Connect to Vegas
At the groundbreaking, which was held near Bakersfield, Newsom and California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri celebrated the completion of Construction Package 4 (CP 4), which includes 11 civil structures, such as viaducts and overpasses. CP 4 spans from Poplar Avenue in Wasco to the Kern/Tulare County line. The project has created over 14,500 jobs to date, including more than 3,200 in Kern County.
By Bo Tefu, California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom joined officials and workers to mark the start of the track-laying phase of California’s high-speed rail project. The event also celebrated the completion of a key 22-mile stretch in Kern County.
This milestone is a significant step toward the project’s eventual passenger service, expected between 2030 and 2033.
“This is not just a transportation project, this is a transformation project,” said Newsom.
The state “just took a massive step forward. We’re moving into the track-laying phase, completing structures for key segments, and laying the groundwork for a high-speed rail network,” he added.
At the groundbreaking, which was held near Bakersfield, Newsom and California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri celebrated the completion of Construction Package 4 (CP 4), which includes 11 civil structures, such as viaducts and overpasses. CP 4 spans from Poplar Avenue in Wasco to the Kern/Tulare County line. The project has created over 14,500 jobs to date, including more than 3,200 in Kern County.
“This milestone reflects our commitment to advancing high-speed rail as a cornerstone of California’s infrastructure,” said Choudri.
The railhead, currently under construction, will serve as a freight yard for receiving and staging materials for track installation. The track-laying phase includes preparing the site for ballast, ties, and rail installation.
California’s high-speed rail system aims to connect the Bay Area, Central Valley, and Southern California, forming a link for economic growth. Partnerships with Brightline West and High Desert Corridor are advancing plans for an interoperable rail network, enabling travel from Northern California to Las Vegas.
“High-speed rail connects communities and drives economic opportunity,” said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “This project will reshape our future.”
