The California High-Speed Rail Authority is considering changing the plans for the first stretch of high speed rail. Instead of building it from Burbank north into the Central Valley, the first section could run from Silicon Valley to Bakersfield.
The original decision to start the initial segment in Burbank was considered a major economic benefit to Southern California. But the state is facing major difficulties with this plan, which entails traversing the geologically complex Tehachapi and San Gabriel mountains with a large system of tunnels and aerial structures.
With the project already behind schedule and facing estimates of higher costs, the Bay Area option could prove to be faster, less risky and cheaper.
The outcome of the new evaluation will be known when the state unveils its 2016 business plan.
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