County eyes High-Speed Rail Site, improved Health Services
The Madera County Board of Supervisors considered supporting the County as the site for a proposed California High-Speed Rail project maintenance facility. The County also approved the application for a $1 million grant to improve public health services.
During their May 5 meeting, the Board approved a resolution supporting Madera County’s selection for a proposed California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR) heavy maintenance facility. CAHSR is an electrified rail system under construction to connect San Francisco to the Los Angeles area in under three hours.
Fourth District Supervisor Leticia Gonzalez noted the resolution’s timing, as the Board honored the late Max Rodrgiuez earlier in the meeting. Rodriguez, a former Fourth District Supervisor, heavily advocated for the County as a CAHSR facility site.
“I find it ironic and yet a little comforting that as we honored Supervisor Rodriguez, this item emerged on our agenda. So, I think it’s comforting to know that there’s still work that is left to be done,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez continued by requesting the reactivation of the high-speed rail task committee, which Rodrgiuez started in the past. She believes this committee will aid collaborative efforts with neighboring county’s, including Merced.
The resolution passed in a 4-0 vote, among other measures including a public health agreement with United Way Fresno.
The Board also approved an application for a nearly $1 million grant to improve public health services. The Innovation Partnership Fund finances the grant, which aims to integrate expanded behavioral health into existing public health services.
If funded, the grant would expand the wellness centers in Madera and Oakhurst. Expansions include on-site behavioral health services, substance use intervention, resilience programming and employment support, among others.
The funding would also expand the County’s mobile health team by adding behavioral health staff, clinicians and case workers. Madera County Department of Public Health Director Sarah Bosse said the goal is to “weave together and augment public health and behavioral health programming.”
Bosse also mentioned the team will target underserved populations in rural communities, tribal lands and agricultural worksites. She envisions new staff members serving as a “low barrier entry point” to services such as screenings and vaccinations.
Organizers expect to announce the grant recipient in mid-June. Bosse said the County expects to initiate augmented services in July 2026.
Also Read: Sierra News Online – Madera County Set to Break Ground on Historic State Route 41 Expansion Project