After six years of having the issue delayed, pushed back, rejected and exalted, Californians will finally get their chance to vote on the development of a bullet train running from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

In the past, the initiative was criticized for political corruption. Ignoring common sense routes in favor of those which cut through protected wildlife preserves and ignored some of the highest segments of traffic in the state, Governor Schwarzenegger asked for the issue to be removed from the ballot in previous elections.

The 3rd time might wind up being the charm for the environmental/economic initiative exciting transit geeks all over the country. With fast trains growing in popularity in Europe and Asia, many Americans are waiting for the day we’ll see the technology lightning along our own shores. If California voters give a bullet train the green light, it’s sure to be a trend that crosses into other states as well.

As with any big government project, people on both sides of the issue are fighting for their wants to be met and at times allowing those issues to derail the whole process. Originally, alternative routes were hailed as better options than San Fran to LA. The choice of routes confused and angered many people who’d been watching the project unfold as the California High-Speed Rail Authority ignored expert recommendations and seemed to merely follow the money trail.

Now the Governor is saying enough changes have been made to give the project the go ahead, but - like so many voting decisions - inclusion on the ballot may reflect a vote for the lesser of two evils. Invest billions in a bullet train which won’t cater to the area’s major issues or forgo the technology all together and continue investing in less environmentally friendly option.

The Expense

The bond asks for $10 Billion to develop a high-speed train to service, initially, a 400 mile stretch. Critics claim the costs will expand to 5 times that cost, but it is expected that private investors will pick up part of that expense.

Experts say it is likely the cost will grow beyond $10 Billion but the costs will be offset by other expenses that won’t have to occur. Building onto the existing roadways and onto airport spaces will also come with a high price tag, and all the better if the money invested in the bullet train can cut down on the congestion or pollution of other methods of transportation.

The Time Frame

Much like the Phoenix Light Rail , this is a long-term project in the making. Service wouldn’t be expected to begin until at least 2020.

Americans in general aren’t good at waiting for projects to take form. They want a return on their investments now, today, and waiting over a decade to see the results may turn otherwise yes votes to no’s.

Cast Your Vote

Tuesday, November 4th, California voters will be asked whether it’s time to give this project the funding it needs. Whether it’s yes or no, this could be a milestone vote for American transportation.

Sources: Christian Science Monitor
California Rail News
The Sacramento Bee

[Image: Creative Commons]