The California high-speed rail project is moving ahead despite all controversies.
The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CAHSRA) is currently working on numerous sites scattered across five Central California counties. This work is part of an effort to build a middle section of the 800-mile, $77 billion high-speed rail project designed to connect Los Angeles and San Francisco by 2033.
The Latest California High-Speed Rail Project Developments
Here are the latest developments regarding this project:
On October 16, 2018, the CASHRA’s Board of Directors will host a Board meeting in Bakersfield to take public comments on all agenda items and will consider certifying the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Fresno to Bakersfield Project Section.
The EIR evaluates the locally generated alternative which extends from Shafter east toward State Route 99 and the existing Union Pacific Railroad tracks, then southward into Bakersfield, ending at a station location on F Street in downtown Bakersfield.
It represents a “comprehensive project-level review of the southern part of the section that runs between Poplar Avenue in Shafter and a station located in downtown Bakersfield,” authority officials said in a press release.
The Controversial Burbank to Palmdale Segment Unveiled
In addition, last month the CAHSRA unveiled its plans for one of the most controversial and expensive segments: Burbank to Palmdale. The rail authority studied several alignments and alternatives for this part of the project. In announcing its decision, the rationale was that this route would be the easiest to build and cause the least harm. It is already evident that this alternative is faced with intense opposition from communities and institutions along the way. California high-speed rail condemnation has steadily grown, with opponents vocal about their concerns regarding the noise and pollution during construction, seismic dangers, traffic diversion and the relocation of businesses among others.
The 38-mile segment closely follows the 14 Freeway through the San Gabriel Mountains and has five separate tunnels, numerous bridges and various sections that would run at-grade planned. The selected route could affect homes, businesses, farms, schools, the Angeles National Forest, an airport and a hospital.
In 2019 the rail authority plans to publish its draft environmental documents that would allow the public, businesses and other government agencies to file formal comments. The final report should be revealed sometime in 2020.
Land Acquisitions Are Accelerating
CASHRA is accelerating its land acquisitions for the other segments of the project using eminent domain when necessary. Property owners on the affected segments should contact an experienced California high-speed rail eminent domain attorney right away. A knowledgeable California eminent domain attorney could help you to fight for your rights and the highest compensation obtainable under the eminent domain laws
If your property is on the path of this project and subject to California high-speed rail eminent domain acquisition, contact the Law Offices of Callanan, Rogers & Dzida, LLP today.
