Separate from ongoing emergency repairs in San Clemente reinforcement areas, OCTA is studying options for reinforcing the rail line for approximately the next 30 years and needs public input
ORANGE – While the Orange County Transportation Authority continues to lead emergency track protection efforts in priority areas along the rail line in San Clemente, work continues on a study of potential solutions that will safeguard rail operations for the next three decades.
OCTA’s Coastal Rail Resiliency Study (CRRS) evaluates strategies to keep trains running along seven miles of vulnerable coastline between Dana Point and the San Diego County line. The study is distinct from the ongoing emergency work that is focused on areas identified as needing immediate reinforcement because of threats to the rail line from coastal erosion and sliding of privately owned hillsides above the tracks.
Upcoming meetings seeking public input on the study, with Spanish interpretation provided, include:
- In person, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15
San Clemente City Hall, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673 - Virtual (Zoom), from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 29
Register: https://bit.ly/CRRS-Jul29
Webinar ID: 876 4063 9878 or Call-in: (669) 900-6833
The 351-mile LOSSAN Corridor is the nation’s second-busiest passenger rail route, also moving more than $1 billion in freight each year. The rail line is designated by the U.S. Department of Defense as a Strategic Rail Corridor Network asset because of its location near military bases and ports.
Repeated weather-related closures in San Clemente since 2021 underscore the need for both immediate fixes and forward-looking solutions.
OCTA led initial emergency work in partnership with Metrolink in late April through early June, placing 5,900 tons of large boulders known as riprap along the rail line. Crews also repositioned existing riprap for additional stability. The initial reinforcement work will also include a 1,400-foot long retaining wall and about 240,000 cubic yards of sand to reinforce the coastal side of the tracks.
The CRRS is looking at additional options to reinforce the track for the next 30 years to limit further disruptions to passenger rail service.
Public feedback this summer will help shape draft alternatives and a final feasibility report expected in 2026.
A separate effort led by the state will look at solutions beyond the next 30 years, including potentially moving the rail line inland in south Orange County.
OCTA will continue to closely coordinate with state and federal partners once that effort begins.
- Those interested in the coastal rail corridor study can sign up for updates at www.octa.net/crrs.
- Learn more about ongoing emergency work at www.octa.net/railemergency.
