The high-frequency Metrolink service project is designed to complement the existing Metrolink commuter-rail service and includes various improvements to the rail network within Orange County. Improvements include increased train service north of the Fullerton Transportation Center, upgraded train stations and enhanced safety at railroad crossings.

By early 2011, Orange County will increase the frequency of passenger-rail service between the Fullerton and Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo train stations to provide passengers with more opportunities to get to and from school, work and fun destinations in Orange County.

Orange County Metrolink service began in 1994 with nearly 144,000 riders. Since then, Metrolink has increased roundtrip routes, added new stations and has grown to three service lines that now serve more than 4 million passengers per year. As weekday passenger-rail service increases, additional parking facilities and station enhancements are necessary to accommodate future growth.

In 2005, OCTA’s Board of Directors approved a $70-million program to enhance rail safety throughout the county. This program is the first countywide effort to enhance the rail corridor that will benefit thousands of community members who live near the 50 railroad crossings in Orange County. Find out the latest information about the railroad crossing improvements here.

As safety enhancements are implemented at each railroad crossing, cities may apply to the Federal Railroad Administration to establish a designated quiet zone in each community so that trains will no longer need to blow their horns. Read more about quiet zones here.

It is important to learn and teach rail safety rules for children, pedestrians and drivers. Click here to learn more about how you can be rail safe.