The Trump administration wants to redistribute $2.4 billion it pulled from California’s high-speed rail project as part of a new $5 billion program announced Monday to fund rail projects to boost passenger rail traffic nationwide.
The new program’s rules for states and others wanting to participate remove any mention of diversity or climate change dating back to the Biden administration. Furthermore, projects that improve safety at railroad crossings and are located in areas with higher birth and marriage rates will be given priority.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized California’s rail initiative, stating, Our new National Railroad Partnership Program will emphasize safety – our number one priority – without the radical ... DEI and green grant requirements. Instead of wasting dollars on Governor Newsom’s high-speed rail boondoggle, these targeted investments will enhance the lives of rail passengers, local drivers, and pedestrians.”
A significant portion of the funding source came from the $4 billion previously allocated to the California project. The rest of the budget comprises funds announced last year.
California officials have expressed their intent to resist the repurposing of funds, claiming it unjustly deprives the state of funding necessary for its rail system. Already, they have initiated legal action against the Trump administration regarding the withdrawal of federal support.
The FRA’s decision to terminate federal funding for California high-speed rail was unlawful, unwarranted, and is being challenged in federal court. Now, their attempt to redirect a portion of that funding, currently the subject of litigation, is premature, stated Micah Flores from the California High-Speed Rail Authority.
The Federal Railroad Administration highlighted the importance of addressing railroad crossings, which see over 200 fatalities a year due to collisions between trains and vehicles or pedestrians. While funding will focus on improving passenger rail, it is possible that some funds will also enhance major freight railroads used by Amtrak.
The administration’s new funding initiative is set to prioritize projects that better the travel experience for families, including developing nursing mothers’ rooms, expanding waiting areas, and creating child-friendly spaces at train stations. Applications for this funding are expected to be submitted by January 7.
