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Rep. Costa Makes Play For Additional CA High-Speed Rail Funds

November 19, 2010

WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa made a play for additional high-speed rail funds today, asking the Obama Administration to redirect unused federal high-speed rail funding to California. Costa's request follows news that some incoming governors, including in Ohio and Wisconsin, have rejected federal funding for their state's high-speed rail projects.

"Several states have recently announced their intention to cancel their high speed rail plans," said Costa. "These unused funds should go to California's project which will create jobs, improve air quality, and spur economic growth. Our state's high-speed rail project is a reality and additional federal investment will bring us closer to breaking ground."

In sending the letter, Costa was joined by fellow Co-Chairs of the California High-Speed Rail Caucus and other members of the California delegation.

The California High Speed Rail Authority has $4.3 billion to construct the first portion of the high-speed rail system which will be located between Merced and Bakersfield. These dollars are made up of federal grants, including the $715 million for the Central Valley segment Costa announced in late October, and funds from the state bond which Costa originally authored.