Congressman Fong Shifts $4B from HSR to Revamp Calif. Freeways

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) led eight California Congressional members in sending a formal letter to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy, applauding the Federal Railroad Administration’s decision to terminate funding for California’s failed High-Speed Rail project.

The letter urges the DOT to redirect the $4 billion in recovered federal funds to critical infrastructure priorities across California. These include expanding State Route 99, Interstates 5, 15, 80, and 395, State Routes 65, 70, and 152, repairing wildfire-damaged roads, and supporting infrastructure improvements needed for the 2028 Olympics. 

“Following the termination of these Cooperative Agreements last week, the U.S. Department of Transportation recovered $4 billion in needed infrastructure funds,” wrote the lawmakers. “We respectfully request that these funds be redirected to critical infrastructure projects in California that have been sidelined in favor of the failed High Speed Rail project. With the Administration’s leadership, we believe we can move past costly pipe dreams and focus on real, achievable infrastructure solutions that truly serve the needs of our communities, such as advancing California’s most essential roadway enhancements.”

The letter was co-signed by Representatives Ken Calvert (CA-41), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Tom McClintock (CA-05), David G. Valadao (CA-22), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Young Kim (CA-40), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Kevin Kiley (CA-03).

Congressman Fong continues to lead efforts to ensure the federal government prioritizes practical, cost-effective infrastructure solutions that enhance public safety, drive economic growth, and promote fiscal responsibility for California and the nation.

Read the full letter here.