High-speed rail agency ordered to reach more minority businesses

The California High-Speed Rail Authority was ordered Thursday to greatly expand its outreach to and inclusion of small and disadvantaged businesses, concluding a civil rights complaint filed last year with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

According to the decision released by federal officials, the rail authority -– which is tasked with building an ambitious high-speed line from San Francisco to Southern California that could cost as much as $65 billion -– must create a development program for small and disadvantaged businesses, specify an officer in charge, compile a directory of all firms that are eligible to participate, and create a business advisory council within 60 days. L.A. NOW

Photo: An artist’s concept of the San Jose stop on the California high-speed rail system. Credit: California High-Speed Rail Authority