Whether you're an economist, a political scientist, a civil engineer, a federal prosecutor, or simply someone who pays taxes, you probably value the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) for the eclectic mix of entertainment, engagement and enragement it provides. Although unlikely to construct any usable rail infrastructure (regardless of speed setting), the Authority is sure to etch its name in the annals of social science (and possibly public-sector criminal law).
At the beginning of 2026, I became aware of a $3.5 billion CHSRA tender for the construction of track and overhead lines between the metropoleis of Merced and Bakersfield. There were two initial bidders for the project, but one was quickly and mysteriously disqualified. And for some reason, a "single bidder" being awared $3.5 billion in public monies did not sit well with me.
Hence, in order to speed up the aforementioned name-etching, I decided to create this here website to serve as a repository of CHSRA's shenanigans big and small. Hopefully, someone powerful can put this information to good use.
HSR25-89: The Track and Systems Construction Contract