California’s high-speed rail project is experiencing delays, according to a recent report from the project’s inspector general. The current goal to complete the Merced-to-Bakersfield section by 2030 is deemed unrealistic, with the project more likely to push its completion timeline to 2033.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority was contacted by Newsweek in February 2025 for an update on the progress of the project.

‍Why It Matters

‍The project, already facing multiple delays, has required additional federal funding since 2019. Criticized by former President Donald Trump as a "waste" and a "green disaster," these latest delays could further erode public confidence in the initiative.

What to Know

‍The inspector general’s report highlights several recommendations, including the possibility of launching service on a limited segment of the Merced-Bakersfield route by 2033. This segment is part of the broader plan to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco through the Central Valley.

Benjamin M. Belnap, in his report to California Governor Gavin Newsom, stated, “Two years ago, the California High-Speed Rail Authority set a target to complete the M-B segment by 2030, while acknowledging that various uncertainties could push project completion out to 2033.”

“The Authority reaffirmed in its May 2024 Business Plan the 2030 target and 2033 'schedule envelope.' Based on our review of the latest project information, the 2030 target date has been pushed back to 2031, in part because the Authority has extended the timeline for completing construction that is currently underway in the Central Valley. With a smaller remaining schedule envelope and the potential for significant uncertainty and risk during subsequent phases of the project, staying within the 2033 schedule envelope is unlikely.”

Belnap further noted, "In fact, uncertainty about some parts of the project has increased as the Authority has recently made decisions that deviated from the procurement and funding strategies that were part of its plans for staying on schedule."

President Trump’s Response

‍President Trump reacted to the ongoing delays, suggesting that the Department of Government Efficiency look into the project, criticizing its management. On Tuesday, Trump stated, “One of the things I want to investigate rapidly – because I've never seen anything to this extent – the train that's being built between Los Angeles and San Francisco, is the worst managed project I think I've ever seen. And I've seen some of the worst.”

What People Are Saying

‍The California High-Speed Rail Authority responded to Newsweek by emphasizing the value of an industry forum attended by CEO Ian Choudri. "Over 400 industry participants representing rail, systems, construction, design, technology, and finance firms attended the event, which also had productive one-on-one meetings with our teams. Throughout the event, the Authority gathered valuable industry feedback that will help inform critical decisions and shape the future of the project."

Trump also reiterated his concerns during a press briefing, stating, “We're gonna start a big investigation on [the project] because it's– I've never seen anything like it,” adding, "Nobody's ever seen anything like it. Nobody has ever seen anything like it. The worst overruns that there have ever been in the history of our country. And it wasn't even necessary."

What Happens Next

‍Despite the delays, construction on the rail system is ongoing, with track laying expected to begin in 2025.