3/16/2026
Rail News: High-Speed Rail
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The Cesar Chavez Boulevard underpass is the 59th structure completed for the Central Valley segment of the planned high-speed passenger-rail line.
Photo – California High-Speed Rail Authority
The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) last week announced the completion of the Cesar Chavez Boulevard underpass grade separation, opening the road to motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic between downtown Fresno, California, and the city’s Chinatown neighborhood.
The grade separation accommodates two lanes of motor vehicle traffic in each direction, bike lanes and protected walkways underneath current Union Pacific Railroad and future high-speed rail tracks, said CHSRA officials in a press release.
“The completion of the Cesar Chavez Boulevard underpass restores a vital connection between southwest Fresno and downtown along one of Fresno’s major east-west arterial roads, improving traffic flow and accessibility to local businesses,” said Miguel Arias, Fresno city council vice president.
The underpass brings the total number of high-speed rail structures completed in the CHSRA’s Central Valley segment to 59, they added. It is also the first structure completed in 2026. The crossing is located less than a mile from the future CHSRA Fresno Station.