Ian Choudri, chief executive officer of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, has resigned amid mounting scrutiny over questionable taxpayer-funded travel expenses, project delays and escalating construction costs. Choudri submitted his resignation Wednesday evening, citing personal and family priorities. The authority's board confirmed his departure Thursday and appointed California Department of Finance Director Joe Stephenshaw as interim chief executive.

The resignation follows a state inspector general investigation that identified approximately $592,000 in unallowable travel expenses submitted by consultants working for the rail authority. Investigators found reimbursements involving premium airfare, upgraded transportation and visits to entertainment venues, including cigar lounges and nightclubs, often without adequate documentation establishing a legitimate government business purpose. Some expenses were incurred at the request of senior agency officials.

Earlier this month, the authority's board voted to restrict Choudri's contracting powers after reviewing the investigation's findings, requiring additional legal oversight of contracts valued below $25 million. The agency has also faced criticism over transparency, financial management and missed construction deadlines. Choudri, appointed in August 2024, maintained that his leadership had helped advance the project despite its longstanding difficulties.

California's high-speed rail program, originally approved by voters in 2008, has experienced substantial cost increases and repeated delays. The authority's latest estimates place the cost of its planned passenger rail system well above $100 billion, while construction continues along the Central Valley corridor. The resignation adds another leadership transition as the state attempts to secure sufficient funding and advance the project toward passenger service.