Coastal Rail Emergency Projects
Coastal Rail Emergency Projects
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has submitted an Emergency Coastal Development Permit application to the California Coastal Commission to advance four emergency projects that will immediately protect a critical link in the state’s rail network.
Overview
As a part of Coastal Rail Resiliency Study, OCTA completed an Initial Assessment that identified four areas requiring immediate action to ensure safe and uninterrupted rail operations through San Clemente.
Emergency action is necessary to address urgent threats from slope and beach erosion and to protect the community, rail passengers and overall rail operations.
The work is projected to include approximately 95% sand and 5% rock reinforcement, known as riprap, only to be placed where needed to stabilize the slope and protect the track. OCTA’s effort is the largest volume of sand placement planned for San Clemente beaches in a single effort.
The emergency projects are independent from the Coastal Rail Resiliency Study and are anticipated to move into construction as early as April 2025. Each project activity will occur on a different timeline based on complexity and availability of contractors and materials. More information is available in the Frequently Asked Questions, including details on Areas 1 and 2.
Please continue to check back at this web page for ongoing updates related to these emergency projects. Recent actions include:
- April 25: Passenger Rail Service to Be Temporarily Halted Through San Clemente to Allow for Emergency Reinforcement
- April 14: OCTA Board Authorizes Emergency Rail Stabilization Work in South Orange County
- April 10: California Coastal Commission issues partial emergency Coastal Development Permit
- March 31: Coastal Rail Stabilization Requires Emergency Action

Coastal Rail Emergency Repair Projects
Area | Location (Mile Post) |
Challenge | Solution |
---|---|---|---|
1 | 203.83-203.90 | Ongoing deterioration of the existing protective riprap due to erosion | Riprap repair, placement and sand nourishment |
2 | 204.00-204.40 | Ongoing deterioration of the existing protective riprap due to erosion | Riprap repair, placement and sand nourishment |
3 | 204.07-204.34 | Continuing bluff failures posing imminent threat to rail infrastructure | Catchment wall with trail restoration |
4 | 206.00-206.70 | Erosion exposing areas of limited to no riprap protection | Engineered shore protection and sand nourishment |
Modifications to design features may be necessary as project development process progresses and engineering is refined.