The High-Speed Rail Office of the Inspector General, issued its report that the California High Speed Rail Authority “has not completed a risk analysis that would allow it better to determine whether its plan for completing the M-B (the Merced-to-Bakersfield) segment is realistic and achievable.”
The reporter further states, “It is increasing unlikely that the Authority will complete the M-B segment.” The Central Valley’s Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo (R-Tulare) issued the following statement:
“After 17 years, and $10.6 billion tax dollars spent on a route between a field in Madera and an orchard in Shafter, it is time to redirect the state’s priorities.
“The Inspector General only confirms the wasteful spending and broken promises by the High Speed Rail Authority.
“Residents of the Central Valley have made their voices heard. We want and need water infrastructure more than the High Speed Rail.
“That’s why I introduced Assembly Bill 267. It reprioritizes two billion dollars funding for High Speed Rail to pay for much-needed wildfire prevention and water infrastructure projects.
“The water infrastructure in the Central Valley is in dire need of moderation for farming and to accommodate the growing communities.
“Twenty-nine (29) lives lost. Over 15,000 structures destroyed causing $250 billion of damages. Californians need to be protected from wildfires, not build a train to an orchard.”
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