Orinda's Ambitious Bid for a High-Speed Rail Stop

Orinda High Speed Rail, Artist Concept

Orinda, CA – In a bold move that has stirred both skepticism and enthusiasm among its residents, the City of Orinda is campaigning to secure a stop on California's forthcoming high-speed rail line. Despite not being directly on the planned route and its proximity to San Francisco, local leaders are advocating for the strategic value Orinda could bring to the high-speed rail network.

Community planners and Representative Mark Andrews are at the forefront of this initiative, countering doubts with a vision of Orinda as a pivotal transit hub. "Orinda is more than just a small town; it's a gateway for travelers heading to and from San Francisco. With facilities like Bevmo, Safeway, and excellent BART connectivity, a high-speed rail stop here makes practical sense," explained Andrews. He also highlighted the potential convenience for those who might accidentally board the high-speed train, mistaking it for a Muni. "Without an Orinda stop, they would have to wait until Manteca to get off," stated Andrews.

City planners have already earmarked the former site of Phair's Department Store as the potential location for the high-speed rail terminal. However, this proposal has not been without its detractors. Some residents express concerns about the noise and disruption, fearing the rail will bring "loud and smoky" trains—an image borne from classic Western films, not the modern, electrically powered high-speed trains planned for the project. These concerns are being taken seriously and will be addressed in the planning process, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered.

One of the more contentious issues has been accommodating service animals and pets. Questions about whether current transit cards like the Clipper card would be valid on the high-speed rail have also surfaced, highlighting the logistical uncertainties accompanying such a significant infrastructure project.

"The concern about pet relief areas at the station exemplifies the detailed planning that needs to be addressed. The issue of pet relief areas alone has been a consistent stumbling block, delaying the rollout of high-speed rail in California," noted a city planner.

Despite the challenges, some residents remain optimistic, pointing to the seemingly irrational placement of other planned stations as a reason to hope. "If some of the other station locations, which seem far less logical, are moving forward, why not Orinda?" questioned a hopeful citizen.

As Orinda's proposal gains traction, the community is not just waiting for the outcome, but actively participating in a series of discussions and forums to debate the merits and feasibility of this ambitious project. Whether or not Orinda secures a high-speed rail stop could significantly influence the city's future, potentially transforming it into a critical node in California's transportation landscape. This is a decision that the community has a say in, and their active involvement is crucial to the process.