U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is urging the California legislature to vote in favor of funding for high speed rail in next month's budget. LaHood came to the state Capitol Thursday to meet with the governor and lawmakers. LaHood said the Obama Administration has committed more than three billion dollars to bring high speed rail to the state.
"We need a strong signal that you're committed to the money for the match,"said LaHood. "Sooner rather than later. We can't wait 'til the end of summer…"
LaHood's visit was prompted in part after reading there may be a series of hearings throughout the summer before a decision by lawmakers.
Last month, the California High Speed Rail Authority released a revised business plan for the project that attempts to address concerns over cost and track location.
Some Democratic lawmakers have said this decision should not be rushed, while Republicans remain united in opposition.
