The £99bn high-speed rail project tipped to transform the west coast of the USA

Despite its position as the world's largest economy, the USA lacks what is considered a basic necessity in countries across the world: quality public transport.

Few passenger railway services exist, but the state of California is trying to change that through the construction of its ambitious high-speed rail project, officially known as the California High-Speed Rail (CHSR).

Approved by voters in 2008 through Proposition 1A, the project envisioned a 494-mile Phase 1 line linking San Francisco to Los Angeles and Anaheim via the Central Valley, with future extensions planned to Sacramento and San Diego, totaling 776 miles. ​

If successful, it could be used as a blueprint for states across the USA to emulate and create a functional, connected and efficient railway system.

The CHSR was conceived to provide a sustainable alternative to automobile and air travel, aiming to reduce congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate economic growth by connecting the state's major regions.

A stretch of the CHSR in Fresno County, California (Image: Getty)

The goal for Phase 1 is to achieve a nonstop travel time of approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes between San Francisco and Los Angeles, significantly cutting down the current travel durations. ​

Initially estimated at $33 billion (£25.6 billion), the project's costs have escalated over time. As of 2024, the estimated cost for completing Phase 1 ranges between $88.5 billion (£68.6 billion) and $127.9 billion (£99.2 billion), depending on various risk scenarios.

Funding has primarily come from state sources, including a $10 billion (£7.7 billion) bond measure approved in 2008 and a portion of revenue from California's cap-and-trade program. Federal contributions have also played a role, with approximately $4.1 billion (£3.1 billion) granted, though these funds have faced political scrutiny and potential withdrawal threats. ​

Construction commenced in the Central Valley in 2015, focusing on a 171-mile segment from Merced to Bakersfield, known as the Initial Operating Segment (IOS). As of early 2025, 119 miles of this segment are under active construction. The IOS is projected to begin revenue service between 2031 and 2033. However, the full Phase 1 line connecting San Francisco to Los Angeles is not expected to be operational until at least 2040. ​

Proponents of the CHSR highlight several anticipated benefits, such as its environmental impact, its role in sparking economic growth, having already created nearly 15,000 jobs, as well as an increase in transportation efficiency.

Recent threats from the Trump administration could see funding pulled from the megaproject (Image: Getty)

Despite its potential benefits, the CHSR project has encountered numerous challenges. The most obvious are the cost overruns and delays, with the project's budget having more than tripled since its inception.

There is also uncertainty over funding, with federal support inconsistent and threats from the US President Donald Trump's administration to withdraw further funding.

Similarly, land acquisition and legal hurdles have proven time-consuming and contentious, contributing to construction delays, while some lawmakers and public figures have called for the project's reevaluation or halting altogether.

As of early 2025, construction continues on the IOS in the Central Valley, with significant progress made on viaducts, overpasses, and other infrastructure. However, substantial funding gaps remain, and the project's future hinges on securing additional financial support and navigating political and logistical challenges.