Abstract
California High-Speed Rail (HSR) is a publicly funded high-speed rail system currently under construction in the state. According to the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA), service on the initial 119-mile segment from Madera to Bakersfield is projected to begin in 2029. The full Phase 1 will later connect Anaheim and Los Angeles with San Francisco via the Central Valley in 2033. The ride between Los Angeles and San Francisco will cover a total distance of 380 miles and take 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Caltrans’ 2021 Interregional Transportation Strategic Plan, makes HSR the state’s highest transportation priority for the San Francisco Bay Area — Los Angeles corridor. Quantifying its public benefits are difficult but include reducing traffic demands on California’s roads and airports.