In response to Governor Suzuki of Shizuoka Prefecture's approval of the construction of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen within the prefecture, JR Tokai plans to begin construction after concluding a natural environment conservation agreement on the 18th of this month. Although there is a possibility that construction will begin within this year, there are still issues to be solved before the plant opens, as construction in Shizuoka Prefecture is said to be the most difficult task, and the total construction cost is expected to increase.