Overview

Between Los Angeles and San Diego, the line is designated as a Strategic Rail Corridor Network by the Department of Defense due to its connectivity with military bases and major ports. OCTA is ready to undertake two feasibility studies that will address the rail line challenges in south Orange County:

Study A (South Coast Infrastructure Feasibility Study/Alternative Concepts Analysis)

The first study will evaluate strategies to ensure uninterrupted rail operations, including a detailed analysis of seven miles of critical coastal track between Dana Point and San Clemente at the San Diego County line. The objective of this short- to medium-term study is to ensure uninterrupted rail operations for the next 30 years.

Study B (South Coast Infrastructure Feasibility Study and Project Definition Report)

The second study will look longer term at a potential rail line relocation along the coast to an inland alignment between San Juan Capistrano and San Onofre State Beach, spanning 11 miles.

Background

Over the past several years, storm surges, combined with several other environmental factors including drastic sea level rise and bluff erosion caused by climate change, have damaged the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Railroad Corridor and adjacent infrastructure. This has resulted in increased required maintenance and emergency repair measures to stabilize the infrastructure. The emergency repairs have also led to substantial service disruptions and delays.

Results from the feasibility studies are expected to inform further project development efforts refining the scope, schedule, and cost estimates for recommended solutions.