This is what I would rather have than HSR. Could be divided into two phases.
Phase 1: Sacramento to the Carquinez strait. Grade separation and electrification allowing 150MPH. Or take the cheaper option of implementing PTC. When PTC is
installed, the Federal Railroad Administration allows trains to reach 110 mph even without “sealing” at-grade crossings. Cost unknown.
Phase 2: Obviously way more expensive to construct a new bridge if needed. Construct a new straightened alignment to Oakland (13 miles from Martinez) by using the bridges and tunnels where needed. Would be well into the billions of dollars. Could be aligned to the new transbay tube and continue on to downtown SF.
Think it would be possible to go downtown Sac to SF in 35 min with nonstop service.