Trump administration cuts $4B in federal funding for California's bullet train project

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The Trump administration revoked federal funding for California's high-speed rail project on Wednesday, intensifying uncertainty about how the state will make good on its long-delayed promise of building a bullet train to shuttle riders between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

The U.S. Transportation Department announced it was pulling back $4 billion in funding for the project, weeks after indicating it would do so. Overall, a little less than a quarter of the project's funding has come from the federal government. The rest has come from the state, mainly through a voter-approved bond and money from its cap-and-trade program.

President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy both criticized the project as a "train to nowhere."

The Railroad we were promised still does not exist, and never will," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "This project was severely overpriced, overregulated, and NEVER DELIVERED.

The loss marks the latest blow to California by the Trump administration, which has blocked a first-in-the-nation rule To phase out the sale of new gasoline-powered cars, launched investigations into university admission policies and threatened to cut funding on transgender girls being allowed to compete in girls' sports.

It also comes as rail project leaders are seeking private investment to help pay for its estimated price tag of more than $100 billion.

Voters first approved the project in 2008 and it was supposed to be operating this decade. But cost estimates have consistently grown and its timeline pushed back.

State officials are now focused on building an 119-mile (192-kilometer) stretch connecting the Central Valley cities of Bakersfield and Merced, which is scheduled to be operational by 2033. The California High Speed Rail Authority is scheduled to release a report this summer to state lawmakers with an updated funding plan and timeline for the project.

Authoritative officials wrote in a letter earlier this month that the Trump administration had already decided to revoke funding before thoroughly reviewing the project. They noted that more than 50 structures have already been built, including underpasses, viaducts and bridges to separate the rail line from roadways for safety.

Canceling these grants without cause isn't just wrong — it's illegal," said Ian Choudri, CEO of the Authority, in a statement on Wednesday. "These are legally binding agreements, and the Authority has met every obligation, as confirmed by repeated federal reviews, as recently as February 2025.

The authority has asked potential private investors to express their interest by the end of the month.

Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom said the state will keep "all options on the table" to fight the revocation of federal funds.

"Trump wants to hand China the future and abandon the Central Valley. We won't let him," he said in a statement.

The state has "no viable plan" to complete even the Central Valley segment, said Drew Feeley, acting administrator of the transportation department's Federal Railroad Administration, in a report released last month. He called the project a "story of broken promises" and a waste of taxpayer dollars.

California Democrats have also criticized project spending. Democratic Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan stated at a budget hearing earlier this year that her constituents "overwhelmingly believe" high-speed rail spending "has been irresponsible."

Newsom plans to extend the state's cap-and-trade program, a key funding source for the project, which is set to expire at the end of 2030, through 2045.

The program sets a declining limit on the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions large emitters can release. Those polluters can buy allowances from the state needed to pollute, and about 45% of that money goes into what's known as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, according to the Independent Emissions Market Advisory Committee, a group of experts that reviews the program.

The fund helps pay for climate and transportation projects, including high-speed rail.

The bullet train project receives 25% of the money from the fund, which ends up being a little less or a little more than $1 billion annually, depending on the year. Newsom proposed in May guaranteeing $1 billion a year for the project from the fund, but lawmakers have not agreed to that.

___

Austin is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Austin on X: @sophieadanna

Read More

The South's Most Beautiful Amtrak Station Is Also Its Most Underrated

As of recent reports, Amtrak's North Carolina and Virginia stations are the busiest in the U.S. , and with the two states being in the South, this proves how vital the region is to the rail network. With these two seeing high ridership and even having plans for further expansion of service, it's easy for some Amtrak stations, no matter how historic or beautiful, to be overlooked. Though it stands in plain sight in the heart of Virginia's capital, Main Street Station is one of the most beautiful and underrated Amtrak stations in the South. Behind this station's ornate Beaux-Arts façade lies a story of resilience, reinvention, and remarkable design.

Similar to this underrated yet beautiful Amtrak station in America which had its fair share of setbacks, over the decades, Main Street Station survived floods, fire, neglect, and the near-collapse of American rail travel, only to rise again, restored to its original grandeur. Today, it serves as a gateway for travelers and a symbol of Southern elegance, architectural brilliance, and historical endurance. This article explores why Richmond's Main Street Station deserves far more recognition.

Amtrak's Architectural Gem In The South

With its soaring clock tower, red terracotta roof, and French Renaissance Revival styling, Richmond’s Main Street Station deserves a place among the most beautiful train depots in the United States. The station’s exterior features refined details such as arched windows that line its red brick façade. These windows allow sunlight to pour through during the day, giving the building a warm, lantern-like glow at night. The majestic clock tower, visible from Interstate 95 and several neighborhoods, also serves as a visual compass and landmark.

One of the station's unique features is its elevated train shed. Spanning several tracks, it is one of the largest remaining train sheds of its kind in the U.S. and was considered an engineering feat when it was constructed. Unlike many stations where platforms are pushed to the outskirts, Richmond's train shed is built above the street-level building. The station's layout also merges with the urban topography of Shockoe Bottom, a historic neighborhood once central to Richmond's commerce and now home to restaurants, galleries, and restored warehouses.

Main Street Station in Richmond, VA

Inside, the artistry continues with high ceilings, exposed ironwork, and expanses of marble and tile that pay homage to the building’s original 1901 design. The main passenger halls strike a balance between function and form, providing waiting areas where travelers can relax and appreciate the architecture. Despite its beauty, Main Street is often overshadowed by the nearby Richmond Staples Mill Road Station (RVR), which, according to Axios Richmond , served over 424,000 passengers in 2023.

The Gilded Past Behind Richmond’s Main Street Station

Built in 1901, Main Street Station was part of a larger movement during the golden age of American railroads, when trains powered local economies and symbolized progress. Richmond, with its historical roots and location between North and South, needed a station that reflected its ambition, and Main Street Station fulfilled that vision. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style and credited to the architectural firm Wilson, Harris, and Richards, the station echoed Europe's architectural sophistication, especially the grandeur of French civic buildings. Its elegant red brick façade, soaring arched windows, and iconic clock tower made it a visual landmark in Richmond's evolving skyline.

From the beginning, the station played a pivotal role in connecting Richmond, one of the historic cities in the U.S. , to the rest of the country. It served as a major stop for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway and the Seaboard Air Line Railway, two major rail networks that transported passengers and freight across vast distances. From this hub, travelers could journey north to Washington, D.C. and New York, or head south toward Raleigh, Savannah, and beyond.

The station’s location in Shockoe Bottom, near the James River, made it vital to the city’s transportation network but also left it vulnerable. In 1972, floodwaters from Hurricane Agnes severely damaged its lower levels, while fires in 1976 and again in 1983 caused further destruction. Meanwhile, as car and air travel became dominant in the mid-20th century, passenger numbers dropped, and by the 1970s, Main Street Station was closed. That might have been the gem’s end, but thanks to preservation efforts, Main Street Station had already been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 .

In the early 2000s, the station underwent a major multi-million-dollar renovation, reopening in 2003 after decades of decline. The restoration aimed to preserve its character while updating it with modern infrastructure like sprinkler systems, elevators, climate control, and more. Further updates since then have included new lighting, digital signage, and accessibility improvements. Still, much of its visual identity has remained untouched, allowing visitors to experience the station largely as it looked over a century ago.

This Amtrak Station Is A Functional Train Hub For Modern-Day Travelers

Main Street Station may be steeped in history, but it is not stuck in the past. Today, this historic station serves as an active Amtrak station on the Northeast Regional line , offering direct routes to major cities such as Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston. For those arriving or departing by other means, local transit connections are strong. The station is serviced by GRTC’s Pulse Bus Rapid Transit line, which runs east to west through Richmond’s core. Bike-share docks, rideshare access, and ample parking nearby make it convenient for residents and out-of-town visitors. Once inside, passengers enjoy comfortable waiting areas, free Wi-Fi, modern restrooms, and digital arrival boards.

In addition to functioning as a transit hub, Main Street Station provides a venue for the local community The upper levels of the station are often used for weddings, conferences, and cultural events. The station's vaulted ceilings and historic architecture have made it a go-to venue for art exhibits, historical showcases, and even public policy meetings.

There are also efforts to expand the station's capacity. In recent years, the Commonwealth of Virginia has invested in future rail expansion , including improvements that could bring higher frequency and more reliable service through Richmond. Although Main Street currently sees fewer passengers than Staples Mill Road, its strategic downtown location and proximity to attractions and institutions make it a perfect choice for long-term growth. Main Street Station is just a short walk from key attractions in Richmond, such as the Canal Walk, the Virginia State Capitol, and the historic cobblestone streets of Shockoe Slip. This kind of walkability makes it easy for travelers to explore before or after a train ride without needing a car.

With its beautiful architecture, deep historical roots, and modern functionality, Main Street Station is one of the South's most underappreciated train stations. For those willing to look beyond the usual travel hubs, this station offers a rare combination of beauty, historical depth, and exceptional services.

Read More

London travel news live: Piccadilly line partially suspended and minor delays on the Elizabeth line

LIVE – Updated at 06:59

The Piccadilly line is suspended between South Harrow and Uxbridge due to a fire alert at South Harrow, with severe delays on the rest of the line.

There are minor delays on the Elizabeth line between West Drayton and Reading due to a late finish to engineering work at Slough.

A good service is reported on the rest of the TfL network.

Follow here for the latest updates

Minor delays on the Jubilee line

06:59 , Nuray Bulbul

The Jubilee line is experiencing minor delays due to train cancellations.

Disruption between London Paddington and Reading expected until 8am

06:55 , Nuray Bulbul

Engineering works overrunning between London Paddington and Reading have resulted in fewer trains operating on certain lines.

Trains running to/from these stations may be cancelled, delayed by up to 10 minutes, or altered.

Disruption is expected until 8 a.m.

Routes affected

Elizabeth line between Abbey Wood and Maidenhead / Reading, and also between London Paddington and Reading

All Great Western Railway services to / from London Paddington

Chalk Farm station closed

06:51 , Nuray Bulbul

This station is closed due to unavailability of station staff. Tickets are being accepted on London Buses.

Severe delays on the Elizabeth line

06:50 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays between West Drayton and Reading due to late completion of engineering work at Slough.

There is a good service on the rest of the line.

Part of the Piccadilly line suspended

06:49 , Nuray Bulbul

No service between South Harrow and Uxbridge while TfL responds to a fire alert at South Harrow.

Severe delays between Acton Town and South Harrow, westbound only.

London Underground tickets will be accepted on local bus services.

Delays on the Mildmay line

Thursday, 3 July 2025 09:24 , Arielle Domb

There are minor delays on the Mildmay line between Clapham Junction and Willesden Junction due to a signal failure at Clapham Junction. Clapham Junction trains may be diverted to Richmond.

Regent Street traffic ban

Thursday, 3 July 2025 09:23 , Arielle Domb

The pedestrianization of Oxford Street should be followed by wider traffic restrictions across the entire West End , Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has been told.

The council said its proposals would make Regent Street St James's – the road directly to the south of Piccadilly Circus, running to St James's Park – traffic-free, an area about the size of five football pitches.

Read the full story here .

Busiest Tube times and lines

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:58 , Arielle Domb

The Tube has felt hotter than ever recently. What are the busiest lines and when are the busiest times to travel?

Find out here .

Cyclists fined for running red lights

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:38 , Arielle Domb

Cyclists in the City of London have been caught 10 times more frequently than drivers for running red lights lights this year.

Since the start of 2025, 284 cyclists in the City of London have been fined for failing to stop at lights, but only 25 motorists were ticketed for the same offence.

Read the full story here .

London Overground disruption

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:36 , Arielle Domb

Passengers describe "overcrowded" and "unbearable" conditions on the London Overground service from Stratford to Clapham/Richmond.

No exceptional delays on the North Circular

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:31 , Arielle Domb

Traffic has cleared on the North Circular.

District Line delays

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:25 , Arielle Domb

Londoners complain about delays on the District Line.

North Circular collision

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:21 , Arielle Domb

There is serious traffic on the A406 North Circular Road southbound at the junction of A124 Barking Road, following a road traffic collision.

A316 traffic

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:08 , Arielle Domb

Traffic is slow moving eastbound on Chertsey Road back to Hospital Bridge Road due to multiple road closures and lane restrictions.

A12 traffic

Thursday, 3 July 2025 08:07 , Arielle Domb

There are delays on the A127 Southend Arterial Road westbound back to Hall Lane and on Squirrels Heath Road and Ardleigh Green road on the approach to the A127.

This is due to restrictions to facilitate the refurbishment of Gallows Corner Flyover.

Part suspensions on District line

Thursday, 3 July 2025 07:53 , Andy Beill

There is no service between Turnham Green and Richmond while Network Rail fixes a signal failure in the Richmond area.

Whitechapel - Tower Hill also remains partially suspended, with severe delays on the rest of the District line.

Reduced service between St Pancras - Nottingham/Sheffield

Thursday, 3 July 2025 07:46 , Andy Beill

More trains than usual are requiring repairs at the same time, which means services between London St Pancras International and Nottingham / Sheffield may be cancelled.

This is expected until the end of the day, National Rail reports .

Rail disruption between Willesden Junction and Clapham Junction

Thursday, 3 July 2025 07:44 , Andy Beill

Disruption between Willesden Junction and Clapham Junction is expected until 13:00 due to a fault with the signalling system.

National Rail reports that Stratford to Clapham Junction services may divert to Richmond not calling at Shepherds Bush, Kensington Olympia, West Brompton, Imperial Wharf and Clapham Junction.

Minor delays on Bakerloo line

Thursday, 3 July 2025 07:40

There are minor delays on the Bakerloo line due to train cancellations.

Part of the District line suspended

Thursday, 3 July 2025 07:38 , Andy Beill

The District line is suspended between Whitechapel and Tower Hill due to a track fault at the latter, with severe delays on the rest of the line.

TfL advises using alternative routes where possible. Tickets are being accepted on London Buses, the Mildmay line, the Liberty line, the DLR, Elizabeth line, C2C and South Western Railway.

Mildmay line resumes good service

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 09:48

A good service has resumed on the Mildmay line.

Trespassing incident

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 09:48 , Arielle Domb

A trespasser on the track at Euston Square has caused disruptions to multiple TfL lines. The entire Circle line has been suspended, while the Hammersmith & City line has been closed between Barking and Edgware Road.

The Metropolitan line has also been partially suspended between Baker Street and Aldgate, and there are minor delays between Harrow-on-the-Hill and Baker Street.

Delays on the Metropolitan line

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 09:36

The Metropolitan line is part suspended between Baker Street and Aldgate. There are minor delays between Baker Street and Harrow-on-the-Hill due to a trespasser on the track at Euston Square.

Delays on the Mildmay line

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 09:14 , Arielle Domb

TfL has announced that the delays on the Mildmay line have been caused by a late running freight train.

Step-free access at Farringdon

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:54 , Arielle Domb

Step-free access is not available at Farringdon station between the Smithfield ticket hall and the Elizabeth line.

TfL advises that passengers should use the National Rail entrance for step-free access.

District line resumes good service

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:44 , Arielle Domb

A good service has resumed on the District line.

Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink disruption

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:34 , Arielle Domb

A speed restriction over a defective track between Brighton and London Victoria has disrupted Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink services. Trains running between these stations will be cancelled, delayed by up to 20 minutes or revised.

The disruption is expected to last all day.

National Rail disruption

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:29

Passengers affected by the National Rail disruptions can use the live departure boards and alternative route guide to replan their journey.

TfL Journey Planner can be used for alternative routes in London.

District line delays

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:05 , Arielle Domb

There are minor delays on the District line between Barking and Upminster due to a faulty train at Barking.

TfL 'fat cats' pocket more than Prime Minister

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 08:02 , Arielle Domb

Over 2,200 staff at Transport for London earned more than £100,000 last year, with nearly 900 more staff than the previous year taking home six-figure packages, according to TfL's annual accounts for 2024/25.

A total of 78 employees earned £170,000 or more - above the reported £167,000 salary of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Read the full story here .

A4 traffic

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:44 , Arielle Domb

There are serious delays on the Piccadilly Underpass in both directions at the junction of the A4 Wellington Place.

Reduced escalator service at Brixton

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:33 , Arielle Domb

The down escalator from the ticket hall at Brixton station is out of service.

TfL union duties payment

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:29 , Arielle Domb

Transport for London is giving more than 800 staff paid time-off to work for a union – at a cost of £9.2m to the organisation.

A total of 843 TfL employees worked on union duties in 2024/5 – up from 799 the previous year.

Read the full story here .

Chancery Lane station closure

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:24

Chancery Lane station is closed due to the unavailability of station staff.

London Overground disruption

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:21 , Arielle Domb

London Overground trains between Stratford and Richmond/Clapham Junction are experiencing delays of up to 10 minutes due to a failure of the overhead line equipment.

The disruption is expected until 8:30 AM.

A406 traffic

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 07:19 , Arielle Domb

There are serious delays westbound on the A406 with congestion back to Clockhouse Junction.

District line trains still running

Tuesday, 1 July 2025 15:52 , Nuray Bulbul

Despite the setback, trains are still running across some parts of the District Line, albeit at a slightly reduced frequency.

TfL has advised commuters to allow for additional journey time and consider alternate routes where necessary.

Heading to Wimbledon this summer? Go to Southfields station

Tuesday 1 July 2025 15:34 , Nuray Bulbul

Tennis enthusiasts may not realise that Southfields station may be a better option for them to get to the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (AELTC).

According to Google Maps, Wimbledon station is a 21-minute walk and Southfields station is a 16-minute walk from the tennis grounds.

No service between Parsons Green and Wimbledon

Tuesday 1 July 2025 15:18 , Nuray Bulbul

There is currently no service between Parsons Green and Wimbledon on the District line.

Alternative routes you can take to Wimbledon station

Tuesday 1 July 2025 15:04 , Nuray Bulbul

South Western Railway / Thameslink

Frequent direct trains from London Waterloo, Clapham Junction and other mainline stations. Thameslink also runs through to Sutton during peak hours.

Northern Line + Tramlink combination

You can take the Northern line to South Wimbledon, then switch to Tramlink at Morden Road, thanks to the out-of-station interchange.

If you're considering traveling by bus, you can take the 493, 57, 152 as well as the Championship shuttle buses.

Alternatively, if you're traveling by car, the Morden Park park-and-ride operates during the Championships (06:30–23:00), costing around £15 per car.

Mildmay line also part suspended

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:49 , Nuray Bulbul

The Mildmay line is the latest to be impacted by the delays.

There is currently no service between South Acton and Richmond while Network Rail fixes a signal failure at Gunnersbury.

The District line has been experiencing delays for several hours.

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:41 , Nuray Bulbul

The District line has been experiencing delays since the morning rush hour on Tuesday.

Other lines have been experiencing similar problems.

Passengers are desperately seeking alternative routes.

District line delays are due to signal failure at Wimbledon

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:27 , Nuray Bulbul

There are severe delays between Edgware Road and Wimbledon while Network Rail fix a signal failure at Wimbledon.

Delays also affect the Bakerloo and Lioness lines.

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:19 , Nuray Bulbul

An earlier faulty train at Wembley Central is causing delays on both the Bakerloo and Lioness lines as well as the District.

Wimbledon station busier than usual

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:13 , Nuray Bulbul

TfL suggests Wimbledon station is more crowded than usual, but its live data indicates it is likely to become quieter in the next hour or so.

What's wrong with the District line?

Tuesday 1 July 2025 14:06 , Nuray Bulbul

The District line is facing a number of interruptions.

Wimbledon fans can expect severe delays between Edgware Road and Wimbledon while Network Rail repairs a signal failure at Wimbledon.

There is currently no service between Turnham Green and Richmond while Network Rail fixes a signal failure at Gunnersbury.

There are also minor delays between Barking and Upminster due to an earlier fire alert at South Kensington.

Seek alternative routes if you're trying to get to Wimbledon. Tickets are being accepted on London Buses and South Western Railway.

Packed platforms at Earl's Court as District line hit by delays

Tuesday 1 July 2025 13:59

Fans on their way to Wimbledon have been left stranded in the 32°C heat due to delays on the District line.

TfL has said there are severe delays between Edgware Road and Wimbledon owing to a signal failure.

Platforms are packed at stations including Earl’s Court as passengers wait for updates.

Read More