I kind of like the 3-state idea, though the N Coast probably should include a bulb-out to pick up Sacramento and the Davis P.R., but only if it comes with new state constitutions for each that eliminate the cruft encumbering the one we have. Just splitting up the state and keeping the same setup we have now will result in 3 failed states instead of one. Note also: 3 state bureacracies and legislatures instead of one, so it'll happen faster.

As noted by others, a large chunk of the problem comes from things the people in their wisdom have done, one special-interest-promoted initiative and bond issue at a time. Combine that with a legislature that is rewarded mainly for inaction on anything useful and a Governator who can make trouble but not fix it, and you have a state that will eventually fail even without a down economy to kick it.

And what does this have to do with railroading anyway? Oh yes, NWP/SMART. We've heard the tune many times and nothing much new (except occasional tie work that might someday allow some slow freights). SMART itself is probably in the same category as some light rail projects where the Feds pulled the money after it became clear there isn't enough money in the present economy to run it if it were built.