The California High-Speed Rail Authority has highlighted its continued progress to advance sustainability through the delivery of its electric high-speed rail line.
This project will provide a sustainable and efficient form of transport in California from the end of the decade.
“Every day, thousands are working to deliver the largest and greenest infrastructure project in the nation. We are proud of our work to bring a truly high-speed rail system, certified at speeds of over 200 mph that is powered by 100% renewable energy. As a part of that process, we have been advancing design for net-energy positive, resilient stations, the nation’s first high-speed rail stations, in California’s Central Valley.”
As construction work advances, the Authority is implementing various strategies to align with its climate goals and reduce pollution:
Energy and Emissions
The California High-Speed Rail Authority has committed to using 100% renewable energy for operation through solar generation.
In addition, it is designing net-positive energy train stations that will produce more energy than they consume.
Natural Resources
Throughout the project, the Authority has preserved and restored more than 4,400 acres of habitat and conserved more than 3,190 acres of agricultural land.
It also reports a 12% decrease in construction water use, compared to 2021. This is in spite of a 38% increase in construction activity levels.
Sustainable Infrastructure
The California High-Speed Rail Authority is integrating sustainability into its project development and operations.
In 2022, 95% of construction waste was recycled or diverted from landfills.
Station Communities and Ridership
The Authority is collaborating with station communities to ensure community-oriented station designs.
The stations will be integrated with a range of sustainable transportation modes, including micromobility, buses, pedestrian pathways and rail systems.
The Authority has also begun work to extend the 119 miles of high-speed line currently under construction to 171 miles from Merced to Bakersfield. This will ensure electric, high-speed rail is delivered for more riders in California.
Economic Development and Governance
In addition, the Authority is also working to benefit disadvantaged communities across the state. In FY 2021-2022, 62% of project investment occurred in disadvantaged communities.
What’s more, more than 13,000 good-paying construction jobs have been created in the Central Valley.
For more information on these initiatives, the Authority’s Sustainability Report can be downloaded here.
