To expand a little on Captain Underpants' excellent argument, let's consider the physical obstacles involved. Promoters of HSR are proposing a line through the Tehachapi range between Los Angeles & the San Joaquin Valley, & again through the Coast Range to the Bay Area. The key word here is THROUGH, as opposed to over. HSR cannot climb a very steep grade, at any speed, which would mean TUNNELS have to be dug. Can you say $$$$$ ??? Speaking of money, the article mentions a Federal contribution of 10 BILLION DOLLARS. Just like that ??? No strings attached ??? No requirement to serve Federal facilities, such as Lemoore N.A.S. or Corcoran Prison ??? You don't think Senator Blowhard from Arkansas wouldn't want a similar amount for his own HSR from Little Rock to Ft. Smith ???
Promoters, indeed...
Union Pacific is reacting as most any private property owner would, to someone who wants to use their property , but doesn't bother to ask first.