OCTA advances siding track project

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) yesterday announced the agency has accelerated construction on a new passing siding track in Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano, California.

A recent work window with no train traffic through the area allowed construction crews to relocate and move new rail into place adjacent to existing track. 

Once the project is complete in 2021, the addition will allow trains traveling in opposite directions to pass each other without stopping. The improvements will reduce delays and increase safety, OCTA officials said in a press release.

OCTA is working in coordination with Metrolink and local cities governments to add 1.8 miles of new track between the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station and Trabuco Creek in San Juan Capistrano. 

The project is funded by Measure M, Orange County’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements.