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Back to LA Observed

LA Observed

A New Hurdle for High-Speed Rail: the San Gabriels

If you've ever taken the drive from LA to San Francisco you know it's no short trip, and with the cost of airfare unpredictable, California voted in 2008 to build a bullet train connecting the two cities. But it hasn't been a smooth ride thus far for the nation's most expensive public works project, ever.

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By Kevin Roderick • Oct 26, 2015 • 4m Listen

If you've ever taken the drive from LA to San Francisco you know it's no short trip, and with the cost of airfare unpredictable, California voted in 2008 to build a bullet train connecting the two cities. When completed, the state High-Speed Rail Authority says the ride will take you about two hours and 40 minutes – moving at speeds of 220 miles per hour. But it hasn't been a smooth ride thus far for the nation's most expensive public works project, ever -- $68 billion expensive. A number of lawsuits seeking to stop its construction have resulted in delays. And experts warn the bullet train will blow most of its deadlines -- and its budget.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Kevin Roderick

    LA Observed

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Benjamin Gottlieb

    Reporter, Fill-in Host

    CultureLos Angeles
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