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.
Crews are continuing to remove the 109-year-old railroad bridge within San Juan Creek. The steel girders that make up the bridge’s main structure have been removed and will be hauled off-site.
Next, crews will begin demolition of the remaining bridge supports, including breaking down and removing concrete elements and extracting foundational components within the creek. These activities are expected to continue through late April.
Work is expected to occur during daytime hours, between 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.
Old Railroad Bridge
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.
