Last January, I partnered with the Center for Urban Infrastructure on a regional study of the economic benefits of the proposed California high-speed rail system. A sneak preview of my study has just been posted. Among the highlighted findings:
- Short-Term Stimulus. During construction (2012-2017), the project will contribute an estimated regional income benefit of $701 million to Southern California workers who otherwise would have been unemployed;
- Green Jobs. By 2035, high-speed rail will attract over 127,000 new permanent jobs to Southern California due to the region’s increased livability and enhanced transportation network, providing a major catalyst for continued expansion of the region’s green economy and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
This Thursday, a conference sponsored by Brandman University in Irvine, appropriately entitled “The Light At the End of the Tunnel,” will mark the official release of the study to the press. It will also feature distinguished panelists, including yours truly and Mayor of Anaheim/Chairman of the High Speed Rail Authority Curt Pringle, who will discuss the future of the project and how to advance it beyond the planning stages.
Location: Brandman University | 16355 Laguna Canyon Road, Room 111 | Irvine, California 92618 | 949-375-0856
Time: Thursday, August 26, 2010, 9:00am – 3:00pm
RSVP: alia@formol.com