The closures since 2021, amounting to more than a year, have severed the only rail connection between San Diego County and the rest of the nation, affecting millions of annual passengers and impacting more than $1 billion in annual freight movement.
Passenger rail service is expected to be suspended for approximately six weeks, beginning on Monday, April 28, while crews work to repair and reinforce the most vulnerable segments of the track.
pdf Passenger Rail Service to Be Temporarily Halted Through San Clemente to Allow for Emergency Reinforcement April 25, 2025
The board unanimously approved a resolution authorizing OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson to take all necessary steps to protect a vital stretch of track through San Clemente, where recent landslides, beach erosion and degrading riprap pose a serious threat to the rail line.
Both traditional passenger rail and the upcoming streetcar offer convenient, car-free transportation alternatives that connect to many locations within Orange County and beyond.
The Orange County Transportation Authority, in coordination with Metrolink, has completed emergency work to stabilize the railroad tracks in San Clemente.
The closures since 2021, amounting to more than a year, have severed the only rail connection between San Diego County and the rest of the nation, affecting millions of annual passengers and impacting more than $1 billion in annual freight movement.
“This quick action by our Board and the state will allow us to move forward with a more effective interim solution to prevent the tracks from moving and to safely restore rail service through this vital corridor.”
Emergency action is necessary to prevent additional disruption of vital rail service. In addition, continued erosion requires quick action to repair and replace existing riprap, or large rocks placed between the tracks and shoreline, to help protect the tracks.
OCTA submitted an Emergency Coastal Development Permit to quickly stabilize vulnerable areas near the railroad tracks in San Clemente. Teen Council members explore transportation topics, provide project feedback, and develop skills through hands-on workshops with OCTA professionals.