California’s highly anticipated High Speed Rail project has reached a new milestone with the completion of the Whitley Avenue underpass, a major infrastructure effort in Kings County.
Significant Progress on Merced-Bakersfield Phase
The Whitley Street underpass, part of the vital Merced-Bakersfield leg of the project, has been successfully completed, the California High Speed Rail Authority announced Thursday. Built by the Dragados-Flatiron Joint Venture, the critical infrastructure includes a modern dual-lane underpass and a safe pedestrian crossing.
Level Separation Studies Continue at Full Speed
This new underpass at Whitley Street is one of 119 total grade separations planned along the 222-mile route between Madera and Bakersfield. These grade separations play a critical role in the safe and uninterrupted operation of high-speed rail by eliminating crossings with existing roadways.
Looking to the Future with Hope
The California High-Speed Rail project continues to gain significant momentum despite some opposition. The state’s commitment to building an all-electric rail system is raising hopes that the project will be completed. So far, more than 60 miles of guideway, a significant portion of the project, have been completed, and more than 50 structures are currently in place for track laying.
Officials are optimistic that major milestones will be achieved next year, such as laying the first tracks in the Central Valley. Significant progress is being made on the project, with a total of 275 kilometers of rail currently under design and construction, and construction of 30 different structures simultaneously in key areas. The completion of the Whitley Avenue underpass is seen as a tangible indicator of the project’s progress and provides hope for future success.
