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.
On Monday, Oct. 27, train service officially began over the newly constructed railroad bridge in San Juan Capistrano, marking a major milestone in OCTA and Metrolink’s ongoing commitment to enhance rail safety and reliability.
The new bridge, built immediately adjacent to the previous bridge, serves Metrolink and Amtrack Pacific Surfliner passenger trains, as well as freight trains.
Although train service has transitioned to the new bridge, crews will continue working in the area next spring to disassemble and remove the old bridge. A new foundation and substructure will be constructed in its place for a potential future second bridge.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2027.
Click on the video below to see the progress of construction and how the new bridge came to life.
WHAT: Crews are expected to continue performing nighttime track work near the Del Obispo crossing. These activities include placing the final layer of ballast (crushed rocks that support the railroad tracks), aligning the track and installing equipment that operates a track switch for the set out track.
WHEN: Ongoing through Thursday, Dec. 11, nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
This work may be loud. The schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or unforeseen operational issues.
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.
