The California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority) today announced the hiring of Frank Vacca, the Chief Engineer of Amtrak, as its Chief Program Manager. Vacca has over 35 years of experience in commuter, inter-city and high-speed passenger rail systems.

“Frank Vacca is a highly recognized and respected executive in rail and will be a major asset in delivering high-speed rail to California in his new role as the Authority’s Chief Program Manager. Frank’s expertise will help fulfill our ongoing commitment to partner with existing rail systems in building a statewide rail network,” said Jeff Morales, CEO of the Authority.

Vacca has a long and varied background in rail management, most recently as the Chief Engineer of Amtrak – a position he has held since 2006. He has held several other key positions with the national rail line. Vacca was also the Deputy General Manager for Infrastructure Engineering at New Jersey Transit.

In his role as Chief Program Manager, Vacca will lead technical and engineering teams as they focus on delivering the high-speed rail project. The Authority is scheduled to begin construction of high-speed rail in 2013.