Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer (both D-Calif.) today applauded the announcement that Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood will redirect an additional $300 million to California for high-speed rail. 

In February, Senators Feinstein and Boxer urged Secretary LaHood to direct federal funds that were rejected by the State of Florida to California.  Last year, Secretary LaHood redirected $624 million to California following a similar request by Senators Feinstein after several states cancelled their high-speed rail projects.

“This is great news for Californians, who have already made strong financial commitments to infrastructure projects,” said Senator Feinstein.  “I applaud Secretary LaHood for responding to our request and allowing the state of California to utilize these funds to advance high-speed rail.  No other state is as ready and able to lead the way in demonstrating the viability of high speed rail.  In addition, these funds will support thousands of new manufacturing, construction, and technology jobs in California.”

Senator Boxer said, “I’m thrilled at this latest investment in California’s high-speed rail system, which will create thousands of jobs and help us build a cleaner and more efficient transportation system to move people all across our state. Secretary LaHood’s decision recognizes the commitment California voters have made to making our state a model for high-speed rail in America.”

The grant will be awarded to the California High Speed Rail Authority to extend the current Central Valley route an additional 20 miles.

 To read the letter by Senators Feinstein and Boxer to the Department of Transportation, click HERE.

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