Brightline West is set to begin construction in the next two months, according to Eric Scheetz, a senior project manager for the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). Scheetz addressed the NDOT board of directors and shared that while the project has secured a $3 billion grant from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and $2.5 billion in private activity bonds, it still awaits confirmation that financing is fully in place before starting construction.

“We are hearing good responses from Brightline that the banks are becoming very close to signing on the dotted line, if you will,” said Scheetz, highlighting the ongoing progress in securing funds for the high-speed rail route between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California.

The $12 billion Brightline West project, which aims to provide high-speed rail service to a growing corridor, will take about three years to complete once construction begins. The project has been divided into nine regional contracts to mitigate risk and ensure efficient progress, with a contingency plan in place if issues arise with one of the contractors.

The revised timeline for the project indicates that Brightline West is now targeting to open the rail line by December 2028, delayed from the initial goal of launching before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The funding structure includes private loans, federal grants, and private activity bonds, but it’s the private investors who will ultimately fund the project upfront, which will be reimbursed once expenses are verified.

“Literally, stuff is changing by the minute,” Scheetz added, signaling that the project is making strides as stakeholders finalize agreements. Despite the delays, the Brightline West project is seen as crucial for expanding the region's transportation infrastructure and offering a sustainable, fast travel option for the Southern California and Nevada areas.

Originally reported by Mick Akers in MSN.