Far West

A new study released by the Federal Railroad Administration lays out numerous diverse options for high-speed rail investment in the nation's heavily-populated Northeast corridor.

The number and scope of investment projects will decrease for state and local governments if a federal limit is placed on tax-exemption for municipal bonds, the National League of Cities warned in a survey released Thursday.

Moody's Investors Service on Monday downgraded the general obligation bonds of Boise County School District No. 73's general obligation bonds to Ba1 from Baa1.

Katherine Perez-Estolano, considered an expert in transportation and land-use planning, was appointed by California Gov. Jerry Brown to the California High-Speed Rail Authority's Board.

California Pollution Control Financing Authority is extending a program designed so that small businesses can save money if they use bonds to purchase equipment.

Moody's downgraded Sacramento County's pension obligation bonds to Baa1 from A3 but affirmed the county's A2 issuer rating.

California said it will hold its second spring sale of $2 billion of general obligation bonds next week.

San Bernardino, Calif., in bankruptcy proceedings, has hired Orange County-based Urban Futures on a contract basis in lieu of hiring a finance director and filling other vacant finance department positions.

Moody's Investors Service says a reduction of California Employees' Retirement System debts in Stockton's bankruptcy reorganization would have major ramifications for bondholders and California municipalities.

Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., has introduced legislation that would make $1 billion available for federal transportation grants.