This is not about getting the line built, this is about getting the line started. Once they break ground and make a reasonable effort towards construction, the federal dollars will come into the state coffers. If the project is later cancelled (as it likely will be), the funds will remain with the state, as the friendly feds will say: "Well at least you tried"
This whole thing is a scam, and the Dims are leading the parade.
So, they are breaking ground on a rail project that will travel through earthquake zones, cause incalculable damage to the environment and pretty much not have too many riders and this is ok, but building a pipeline is out of the question?
Crony capitalism...Democrat style.
And remember, California has a quarter million lawyers.
You need lawsuits to keep them gainfully employed.