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The L.A.-Bound Bullet Train's First Bridge is Now Being Built
The high-speed rail designed to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco may be heading south faster than opponents would like, as construction on the bullet train's first bridge began today.
Crews started working today on a viaduct that will span the length of the Fresno River in Madera County, and will help the high-speed train make the projected two and a half hour ride from L.A. to S.F. The bridge is part of a 29-mile construction zone, which will also include two more viaducts and 12 grade separations, according to the L.A. Times. Of course, the California High-Speed Rail Authority has yet to choose a contractor to build the actual track and electrical systems needed, but, hey, those are just details, right?
And while construction is underway now for the bridge, the project still faces some major budget issues—in addition to vocal opposition in L.A. and other communities along the projected route. At this point the project has about $26 billion in potential state and federal funding over the next 14 years, but that's considered only half the amount of money needed to complete the 500-mile route.
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Your support for independent local news is critical. With federal funding for public media gone, LAist faces a $1.7 million yearly shortfall. Speaking frankly, how much reader support we receive now will determine the strength of this reliable source of local information now and for years to come.
This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
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