The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), in coordination with Metrolink, is replacing the railroad bridge over San Juan Creek. Built in 1917, the bridge has reached the end of its useful life and will be replaced by a new three-span girder bridge.
The San Juan Creek Bridge Replacement Project will replace the railroad bridge over San Juan Creek in the City of San Juan Capistrano.
The project will construct a new three-span girder bridge west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will enhance safety, reduce maintenance needs, and meet current design and bridge load standards. The existing bridge will be demolished, and a new foundation and substructure will be installed for a potential future bridge. There are no plans to construct a second bridge but if a need arises, the supporting infrastructure will be in place.
The bridge serves Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner passenger trains, as well as freight trains.
Crews will continue installing deck pans and performing other activities from the creek during daytime hours, between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday work is expected to continue through Aug. 9.
Crews are expected to trim trees within rail right of way to ensure the rail line remains safe and operational. This daytime work is anticipated to begin on Monday, Aug. 18 and is expected to take approximately one week.
Nighttime utility work is now expected to continue into September as crews continue to perform underground utility work related to the relocation of communication and signal lines.
The adjacent communities may experience noise and lighting from the operation. Train horns may also sound because the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines require that all trains sound their horns when workers are present on or around railroad tracks. This federal mandate applies to construction zones.
This work may be loud. This schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or unforeseen operational issues.
The construction of the new railroad bridge is making good progress where crews recently erected steel girders above the bike path. Crews will continue bolting and welding activities on the bridge into August.
This work may be loud. This schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or unforeseen operational issues.
The San Juan Creek Trail is expected to be closed tomorrow morning, Friday, Aug. 8 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. The closure would allow crews to work underneath the new underpass bridge.
Crews are expected to perform track work, which includes the removal of railroad ties around the Del Obispo crossing. This will require lane closures on Del Obispo Street between Paseo Adelanto and Camino Capistrano beginning next week. At least one lane in each direction will remain open at all times.
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines require all trains to sound their horns when workers are present, in emergency situations or when there are trespassers on or around railroad tracks. This federal mandate applies to construction zones. As a result, for the safety of construction workers, train crews and passengers, and the public, horns will be sounded when trains pass through the area.
The public and businesses adjacent to the work area may experience noise and vibration from demolition and drilling activities as well as light from construction operations. Noise may also be generated from construction equipment back-up alarm. The alarms are required by state regulation.
The Public Outreach team regularly hosts project information booths at Descanso Park in San Juan Capistrano. In addition, the team participates in community events.
Businesses or civic organizations that would like to receive a project presentation may email the team at SJCBridge@octa.net.
If you have any questions or would like to request information in another language, please contact the Outreach Team at (800) 724-0353 or email SJCBridge@octa.net.
