California’s high-speed rail project moves forward. The California High-Speed Rail Authority recently released a key document. This is the draft environmental review. It focuses on the Los Angeles to Anaheim section. This 30-mile segment is crucial. It forms the final part of Phase 1. This phase connects San Francisco to Anaheim.
Major Step for Statewide System
The draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) is now available. It marks the final stage. This stage is for full environmental clearance. The statewide system aims for 494 miles. This news is important for the project’s future. It brings the vision closer to reality.
Public Input Period Opens
Now, the public can share their thoughts. A comment period is open. It began on December 5, 2025. It will end on February 3, 2026. Comments are vital for decision-making. They help shape the final plans. The Authority encourages broad participation.
Route and Corridor Details
The Los Angeles to Anaheim section is the southernmost link. It connects Los Angeles Union Station (LAUS). It also connects to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). The route uses the existing LOSSAN rail corridor. This corridor already hosts passenger and freight trains. Metrolink and Amtrak trains use it. BNSF Railway trains also travel here.
The alignment passes through many cities. These include Los Angeles, Vernon, Commerce, and Bell. It also goes through Montebello and Pico Rivera. Norwalk and Santa Fe Springs are on the path. La Mirada, Buena Park, Fullerton, and Anaheim are included. Portions of unincorporated Los Angeles County are also part of the route.
Examining Project Alternatives
The draft document evaluates several options. There is a “No Project Alternative.” This means no high-speed rail is built. Two build alternatives are also presented. Both involve shared passenger tracks. The main difference lies in the maintenance facility. Alternative A is the Authority’s preferred choice. It includes a Light Maintenance Facility (LMF) at 26th Street. Alternative B proposes an LMF at 15th Street.
Potential Intermediate Stations
The document also considers an intermediate station. This stop is not part of the preferred plan. However, it is being evaluated. The potential location is either the Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs Metrolink Station. Alternatively, it could be the Fullerton Metrolink/Amtrak Station. This decision is subject to further study.
Project Background and Goals
The California High-Speed Rail project aims high. It seeks to connect major urban areas statewide. Speeds can exceed 200 miles per hour. The goal is a faster, greener commute. This initiative also aims to boost the economy. It will create jobs. Reducing emissions and congestion are key objectives. The project faced past funding challenges. However, federal investment continues to support it.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
The Authority is hosting public meetings. These events provide project details. They also allow for public comments. Written comments can be mailed. They can also be submitted online. Email submissions are also an option. Oral comments are accepted by phone. Public input is a critical part of the process. The Authority will review all feedback. This review will inform future decisions. The goal is to complete environmental clearance by 2026. Service to Anaheim is tentatively planned for 2033.
This news is featured prominently in California transportation updates. The Los Angeles to Anaheim segment is vital. It completes the initial phase of this ambitious network.
