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The California High-Speed Rail Authority recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with southern California transit agencies that outlines a shared commitment to develop high-speed rail in the region.

CHSRA will identify $1 billion in Proposition 1A funds that can be used for investments in projects designed to improve regional rail service in the short term while the authority plans for long-term high-speed rail expansion in southern and northern California. In return, regional agencies would work with CHSRA to find matching funds to improve the existing transit-rail systems and deliver high-speed rail sooner.

The coordinated effort “defines a new interagency partnership that further promotes intermodal connectivity,” according to CHSRA.

Agencies that have approved the MOU include: Southern California Association of Governments, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Diego Association of Governments, San Bernardino Associated Governments, and the Southern California Regional Rail Authority.

“We see great potential in these efforts, as it will lead to immediate infrastructure improvements, while preparing for future build out using a phased approach,” said CHSRA Board Chairman Dan Richard in a prepared statement. “We look forward to developing similar agreements in northern California.”

Now, the agencies will work to develop a project list and prepare performance criteria for selecting and prioritizing the projects included on the list. The projects then will be recommended to the state Legislature, which will appropriate the funds, according to CHSRA.