“I knew there would be a lot of controversy, a lot of criticism and there's a lot of support,” said Harry Armstrong of the Fresno County Transportation Authority.
$25 million of Measure C money is set aside for a possible High Speed Rail maintenance yard. There are plenty of folks with a lot at stake. A rail proponent,
“Six months ago I wasn't sure whether our concerns from the city were going to be taken up, and the authority has demonstrated that they are, whether it's putting in underpasses instead of overpasses, working with property owners,” said Mayor Ashley Swearengin.
New H.S.R.A. President Dan Richard admits he's trying to repair damaged relationships with community leaders, farmers, and business owners along the proposed rail line.
“We kind of got off on the wrong foot on that. It was before I was on the authority. Governor Brown has directed us to come in and make things right and that's what we're going to try to do,” said Richard.
But one farmer from
“We're hearing good little things, but so far there’s no meat to it,” said Karen Stout.
The first phase of construction is set to begin before the end of 2012.