This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
1/29/2024
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), which owns the rail line that connects San Diego County to Orange County and points farther north, is working with Metrolink to clear tracks after a recent landslide in San Clemente, California, and restore passenger- and freight-rail service.
Last week's suspension of service on the rail line is the fifth service interruption in the past three years, according to an OCTA news release. Rail service was suspended between the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viego and Oceanside stations last week. Two weeks ago, the same landslide prompted the city of San Clemente to close its Mariposa Point Pedestrian bridge.
Over the past three years, San Clemente's eroding bluffs — on both city and private property — have repeatedly forced the closure of the rail line, which is used by Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, Metrolink and BNSF Railway Co. trains.
OCTA has set a phased approach to continue operating service with minimal interruptions. Details on when the rail line will reopen has not been announced.
"Throughout California, we continue to see natural threats to our transportation system and our challenge as leaders is to come together and focus on lasting solutions for future generations," said OCTA Chair Tam Nguyen.