California’s high-speed rail authority has tapped a longtime adviser to Gov. Gavin Newsom to temporarily lead the state’s troubled bullet train program after CEO Ian Choudri resigned Wednesday night.
Joe Stephenshaw, director of the California Department of Finance, was named interim CEO during a Thursday meeting of the High-Speed Rail Board.
Choudri’s departure follows a tenure overshadowed by controversy involving the long-delayed and increasingly costly rail project, CalMatters reported.
“We thank Mr. Choudri for his service and his contributions to the high-speed rail program, and we wish him and his family well,” board Chair Steve Kawa said.
Kawa said Newsom’s recent appointments to the board were intended to strengthen oversight, accountability and transparency surrounding the project.
“Today’s news reflects the board’s commitment to accountability and transparency, consistent with the governor’s mandate under new board leadership at the authority,” he said.
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“Californians deserve a project they can trust, and the governor will continue to insist on that from everybody working on it,” Kawa added.
Newsom appointed Stephenshaw to lead the Department of Finance in 2022. In that role, he has played a key part in shaping the governor’s annual budget proposals.
Prior to becoming finance director, Stephenshaw served in Newsom’s office as a senior counselor for infrastructure and fiscal affairs.
Board members did not say how long Stephenshaw is expected to remain in the interim position.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
