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 is replacing the railroad bridge over San Juan Creek in the City of San Juan Capistrano.
The project is constructing 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.
Drilling operations are underway to construct a new substructure for a potential future bridge. This work includes drilling, installing reinforcing steel, and pouring concrete.
Concrete pours are expected to begin in mid-May and occur on a weekly basis. During this time, concrete trucks will access the work area via Camino Capistrano and exit via Stonehill Drive.
Work hours are Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
This work may be loud. The schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or unforeseen operational issues.
Drone footage of bridge removal activities
Crews installing a steel casing – May 2026
Crews delivering backfill – May 2026
Crews working in the creek – April 2026
Old railroad bridge demolition activites – April 2026
Aerial view of bridge girder removal – April 2026
Aerial view of bridge girder removal – April 2026
Aerial view of bridge girder removal – April 2026
Deck removal Activities – March 2026
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.
