LAS VEGAS, NV — The long-anticipated high-speed rail line connecting Southern California and Las Vegas is now 99% ready to enter construction, according to Brightline West officials, marking a major leap toward America’s first true high-speed rail system.
The 218-mile route from Rancho Cucamonga, CA to Las Vegas, NV aims to slash travel time to just two hours, with trains expected to reach speeds of 200 mph. That’s less than half the typical time it takes by car on the heavily congested I-15 corridor.
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“We’re Getting Close”
Brightline West confirmed this week that it has completed 99% of field evaluations, including crucial soil testing along the route. These assessments are the final steps needed to finalize engineering designs for stations, tracks, and support structures. Though a ceremonial groundbreaking was held in 2024, actual construction has yet to begin—but that moment is now “imminent,” according to the company.
Originally slated to open ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the project has faced delays. However, momentum is building again as officials reaffirm their commitment to getting shovels in the ground.
America’s First True High-Speed Rail
If completed, Brightline West would become the first genuine high-speed rail in the U.S.—meeting international standards of operating over 155 mph on dedicated tracks. Currently, no such system exists in the country. In contrast, nations like China, Japan, and France have robust high-speed rail networks, with China alone operating more than 30,000 miles of track.
Brightline West’s project is separate from—but complementary to—California’s High-Speed Rail, a long-term state initiative connecting San Francisco and Los Angeles via the Central Valley. Another future link, known as the High-Speed Desert Corridor, could eventually connect both systems.
Florida Success Lays the Groundwork
Brightline has already made inroads in Florida, where it operates a popular Miami-to-Orlando rail line. While not classified as high-speed, that service has shown strong ridership growth and frequent train additions to meet demand.
“If you build it, they will come,” said former U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Europe and Asia have proven this. Their trains are wildly popular—and we can replicate that success here.”
As construction nears, Brightline West is inching the U.S. closer to catching up with the global standard in fast, clean, and efficient mass transit.
