California has committed substantial funds to developing a high-speed rail network that will connect Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and San Francisco. $9 billion in voter-approved funds provide an initial investment, and the system is expected to generate economic and environmental benefits. It will create hundreds of thousands of jobs and cut transportation costs and emissions. The high-speed rail is part of California's broader commitment to investing in and expanding its existing passenger rail system to meet the needs of the state's growing population.