Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
3h ago

Trump Administration Reassigns $2.4 Billion From California Bullet Train to New National Rail Program

California officials call the reallocation unlawful, pledging immediate legal action.

FILE - The Tied Arch Bridge construction site, which will take high-speed trains over State Route 43, April 15, 2025, in Fresno County, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez, File)
FILE - Ironworkers with the California High-Speed Rail Authority work on the Hanford Viaduct, April 15, 2025, in Kings County, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez, File)
Image
Image

Overview

  • DOT and the FRA launched a $5 billion National Railroad Partnership Program seeded with $2.4 billion pulled from California’s high‑speed rail, with applications due January 7.
  • New rules remove Biden‑era DEI and climate language and prioritize grade‑crossing upgrades, family‑oriented station amenities, and projects in areas with higher birth and marriage rates.
  • The California High‑Speed Rail Authority argues the funds are tied up in litigation and says it will seek to block the redistribution in federal court.
  • DOT described the move as the first "Trump Infrastructure Dividend," saying recompeted dollars will shift from what it called wasteful boondoggles to real infrastructure projects.
  • FRA highlighted crossing safety as a driver for the change, citing more than 200 deaths a year at crossings, and AP reported some awards will likely fund upgrades on freight‑owned tracks used by Amtrak.