Issue Position: High Speed Rail, Regional Transportation and Needed Infrastructure

Issue Position

Since HSR was approved by voters, much has happened. Changes in ridership projections, costs and governance have eroded confidence and support. Voters deserve another say on this project that has the possibility for a profound impact on our State's financial future and quality of life in our communities.

The budget trailer bill recently approved by the Legislature included provisions for a blended approach that would seek to keep high speed rail tracks within the Caltrain right-of-way. Unfortunately, ​these conditions aren't binding on future Legislatures, but only provide a 'speed bump' to possibility of a full build out on the Peninsula. Electrification of Caltrain is needed, but shouldn't be the 'sweetener' for a bad deal.

It is telling that those legislators who have been most deeply involved in working on HSR voted against this bill. We need a robust, transparent discussion of the project overall and how we will balance our pressing infrastructure and operational needs, including the need for restoration projects in the Bay Delta (where we face huge financial liability for our inaction) and every day operational needs for education, healthcare and basic safety net programs. Under our State's Constitution, general obligation bonds must be paid first and their growing share of the state budget merits discussion.

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