U.S. announces $2.4 billion for high-speed rail

The federal government will send $2.4 billion to 54 high-speed rail projects in 23 states, the Transportation Department said on Thursday, following up on announcements made by members of Congress and governors earlier in the week.

"States understand that high-speed rail represents a unique opportunity to create jobs, revitalize our manufacturing base, spur economic development and provide people with an environmentally friendly transportation option," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in a statement.

The federal government received 132 applications from 32 states totaling $8.8 billion, more than three times the amount appropriated, the department said.

California will receive the most money. The state has approved selling $10 billion bonds to build a rail line stretching north to south and already received $2.25 billion from the stimulus plan.

Below is a list of the states receiving money. Some projects run through more than one state, and a handful of states are involved in multiple projects.

California.......................... $901.574 million

Florida..................................$808 million

Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska................ $230 million