Local nonprofit agency seen as obstacle holding up progress of High Speed Rail

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Large portable units are in place and ready to feed and house the homeless across the street from the Fresno Rescue Mission.

The mission is in the midst of moving services to make way for the High-Speed Rail.

An eminent domain complaint filed by the State of California against the rescue mission indicates negotiations over the property have not gone smoothly.

"I think it's really to protect their interest and it's just part of the legal process," said Rescue Mission CEO Don Eskes.

The complaint also includes the City of Fresno, which leases parcels to the rescue mission and the Poverello House which could have a parking lot impacted once G Street is re-aligned for High-Speed Rail.

The Fresno Rescue Mission's move is unique in that it is a two-stage relocation. Services will be temporarily moved to the new modular buildings.

It may take five years before the mission gets a permanent facility so CEO Don Eske wants to make sure the mission is adequately replaced.

"It wasn't money as much as just some of the agreement, in our agreements with the state that some of the wording and just for protection we want to make sure we're adequately protected," said Eskes.

The complaint asks the described property be condemned for plaintiff's use.

The High-Speed Rail line is taking shape along G Street in downtown Fresno.

Work is expected to be completed on the temporary rescue mission buildings in another month.