The California High Speed Rail Authority is studying the development and implementation of intercity high speed train service that is fully coordinated with other modes of transportation and public transportation services. Furthermore, the Commission determined that HSR would positively impact California's economy, enhance the state's competitiveness in a global market, and receive widespread support from the people of California. Implementing the HSR network in California is the responsibility of the California High Speed Rail Authority created by Senate Bill 1420, which was signed by Governor Pete Wilson in September 1996. The Authority has all the powers necessary to oversee the construction and operation of a statewide HSR network. At present, there are over 65 members of the Alliance from the Antelope Valley and San Joaquin Valley.
Members represent both public and private agencies.
The Authority has yet to decide whether the station will be located in downtown Bakersfield, or west of the town. At the meeting on September 29th in Sacramento, the Authority, however, decided to proceed with the alignment over the Grapevine and not through the Antelope Valley.