XpressWest signs MOUs to study L.A.-Vegas high-speed rail extensions

The boards of Metrolink and the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) recently approved memorandums of understanding (MOU) with Brightline/XpressWest to study a possible expansion of Xpress West's proposed high-speed rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area.

Metrolink's board approved an MOU last week, according to a Forbes report. The study would examine linking the XpressWest project to Metrolink stations in the Los Angeles suburbs of Rancho Cucamonga and Palmdale, California. Each extension would add about about 50 miles from XpressWest's current terminus in Victorville, California, the news organization reported.

"This is a forward-looking partnership that will allow us to explore the possibility to enhance the rider experience and attract new riders," said Metrolink Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Wiggins.

Meanwhile, the SBCTA's board in early July approved an MOU with Brightline/XpressWest to expand the high-speed rail service to Apple Valley, using the right of way through the Cajon Pass along Interstate 15 and eventually connecting with the Metrolink station in Rancho Cucamonga. 

Under the MOU, the authority and XpressWest would work together and with other stakeholders to evaluate design and right-of-way issues, SBCTA officials said in a press release.

"The MOU allows us to work with XpressWest in looking outside the box in considering the possibility of a privately built and managed rail system through the Cajon Pass between Apple Valley and Rancho Cucamonga," said SBCTA Executive Director Ray Wolfe.