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Californians Still Want High-Speed Rail Despite Funding Cuts

Californians Still Want High-Speed Rail Despite Funding Cuts

A new poll shows 62% of Californians still support the state's high-speed rail project, even as it faces major federal funding challenges.

Urbanize Team
August 27, 2025

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📅 Today's Story: A recent poll revealed that 62% of registered California voters continue to support the state’s High-Speed Rail project, signaling public enthusiasm despite political opposition and funding setbacks.

TRANSPORTATION

Californians Still Want High-Speed Rail Despite Funding Cuts

A bridge under construction for the CA High-Speed Rail Project (CA High-Speed Rail Authority)

📰 What Happened: Even with the government’s decision to pull $4 billion in federal funding, California’s High-Speed Rail project is favored by a majority of voters: 62% of registered Californians support the project—up to 79% among Gen Z voters and 80% among Democrats.

🔍 A Closer Look: Governor Newsom proposed a $1 billion annual state investment over 20 years, while the state pursues legal action to recover lost federal funds. Meanwhile, construction continues in the Central Valley, where arched bridges and track infrastructure are visibly taking shape.

🧠 Why It Matters: Supporters argue the rail system will deliver environmental benefits, create jobs, and improve mobility. Critics point to cost overruns and shifting timelines. Either way, broad public support offers California lawmakers some political cover to continue building the nation’s most ambitious rail project.