High speed trains in the United States? This is the latest project seeking yet another innovation
California is developing a $3.5bn bullet-train system that promises to be the fastest in the country and mark a milestone in U.S. infrastructure.
December 1, 2025, will go down as a landmark date for U.S. rail infrastructure. California High-Speed Rail - the ambitious bullet train project designed to link San Francisco and Los Angeles - took a decisive step toward becoming reality. The state authority opened a $3.5 billion bid to install tracks, electrical systems, and communications, marking the start of the most anticipated phase yet.
This move comes after years of delays, federal funding cuts, and environmental reviews. Today, 463 of the 494 miles between San Francisco and Los Angeles/Anaheim have cleared environmental approval, and 171 miles between Merced and Bakersfield are either under design or active construction.
High-speed rail in America?
Officials call this installation phase “a major milestone,” signaling that the country is closer than ever to having America’s “first true high-speed rail track,” according to Ian Choudri, the authority’s CEO.
Economically and socially, the project is already making an impact. Since breaking ground, it has created tens of thousands of jobs in the Central Valley. In recent months, the authority has sourced rail materials that comply with “Buy America” laws - prioritizing domestic manufacturing and reinforcing its commitment to local industry and employment.
Still, the journey hasn’t been smooth. In recent years, the project faced steep federal funding cuts, scrutiny over costs and feasibility, and a redefined scope from its original vision.
With this new bid, California’s bullet train is back in play. If progress stays on track, passengers could be riding high-speed trains in the coming years.
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