Brightline, the only privately owned and operated passenger rail system in the United States, is acquiring XpressWest, a high-speed passenger rail project with plans to develop a connection between Southern California and Las Vegas. This will be Brightline’s first foray into the West Coast.

The project will also be Brightline’s second privately funded intercity passenger rail in the United States.

“Brightline is changing transportation in our country by connecting heavily trafficked corridors that are too long to drive and too short to fly,” said Wes Edens, co-founder and co-chief executive officer, Fortress Investment Group. “Our experience in Florida is proving that private-sector investment has a meaningful role to play in developing transportation infrastructure. We’re excited to bring Brightline’s world-class and convenient travel experience to Southern California and Las Vegas.”

“The introduction of high-speed rail between Las Vegas to Southern California will bring significant economic and environmental benefits to our state and support increased tourism,” said Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. “Brightline has built a proven model for privately funded high-speed rail service in Florida and we are excited to welcome them to Nevada.”

The line will connect one of the most traveled routes in the country, with 22 million people living in the two regions. Service should start in 2022.