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 WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced $179 million for the state of California to continue building a statewide, passenger rail network with both high-speed and intercity service. Funding will kick-start several major projects throughout the state including the construction of new tracks, the purchase of next generation trains, and the installation of high-tech signaling systems.

Through federal investments and voter-approved state investments, California is laying the groundwork for the nation’s first 220-mph high-speed rail system that will deliver trip times less than two hours to Los Angeles and the Bay Area. The rail dollars will also be used to improve existing intercity service throughout the state, including the acquisition of new trains.

“With 20 million more people expected to be in California within the next 40 years, we can’t build enough highways and airport runways to accommodate the demand,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “Passenger rail will play a much greater role in how Californians move throughout the state to ensure California’s economy keeps moving forward.”

Californians are already seeking convenient alternatives to high gas prices and congested highways, as the state currently boasts some of the busiest rail corridors in the nation. The Pacific Surfliner has the second highest ridership figures in the system, and the Capitol Corridor had more than 1.5 million riders in 2010. Highlights of LaHood’s announcement include:

• The California High-Speed Rail Authority will receive $86.4 million for the Central Valley project, extending the current 110 mile segment an additional 20 miles to Merced and Bakersfield, advancing completion of the backbone of the Los Angeles to San Francisco corridor.
• Caltrans will receive $68 million for new trains servicing intercity routes. The funding is part of a multi-state procurement between California, Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Washington State to pool resources, maximizing the purchase of next-generation American-made trains. Along with $100 million from a previously awarded grant to California, the money will allow for the purchase six new locomotives and 40 new passenger cars.
• Signaling/Safety — Positive train control (PTC) will be installed between San Onofre and San Diego. This signaling system will increase railroad safety and efficiency by monitoring and controlling train movements. $24.9 million was awarded to Caltrans to install the system.