This is how a station at Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe might look if California builds a high-speed rail network.
Re “High-speed rail: Don’t penalize the poor” (Viewpoints, March 30): There’s no question that Californians should be concerned about resources for public transportation, but Lisa Schweitzer’s worries about high-speed rail missed the mark.
Protections for taxpayers were built into the law voters approved as part of Proposition 1A. It specifically requires California’s high-speed trains to operate without a state or local subsidy. The very burden Schweitzer is concerned about is forbidden by law.
What’s more, the California High-Speed Rail Authority is committed to financing the project through a combination of sources, which includes significant private capital investment.
The recent award of $2.5 billion in federal stimulus funds to California – the largest award in the nation – signals a strong administration commitment to the project.
But it’s even more important to recognize that high-speed rail, despite its costs, actually represents a more cost- effective transportation alternative than expanding our already crowded freeways and airports.
The high-speed train is a critical piece of the state’s future mobility and environmental responsibility, and must be fully integrated with robust local transit systems. The High-Speed Rail Authority is working in collaboration with transit agencies throughout the state to ensure the project succeeds on all levels.
California has a chance to build a high-speed rail system like the ones enjoying great success around the world, bringing with it the jobs and opportunities our residents need and deserve.