California lawmakers to scrutinize high-speed rail

A legislative committee is looking for answers on the status of California’s $68 billion high-speed rail project.

The rail project’s CEO, the chairman of its board and the leader of an oversight commission are expected to testify to a panel of Assembly lawmakers on Wednesday.

Construction of the bullet train has been beset by delays in acquiring needed land in the Central Valley. Lawmakers also question whether its cost projections are still accurate.

Lawmakers in 2015 created the first long-term funding source for high-speed rail, giving it a quarter of funds from fees charged to polluters.

But the project faces continued criticism, particularly in Central Valley and Southern California communities it may traverse.

The High-Speed Rail Authority is expected to provide its 2016 business plan to lawmakers in February.