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2/28/2023
The Orange County Transportation Authority has developed a framework for working with local, state and federal entities to examine the issues behind coastal erosion near rail tracks in San Clemente, California.
The framework follows emergency stabilization work being done on 700 feet of track on the coast since November 2022. Due to the area's proneness to erosion, the tracks gradually shifted over time — as much as 28 inches over one year — threatening the stability of rail service there. Metrolink and Amtrak passenger service, as well as BNSF Railway Co. freight service, was suspended in September.
The emergency work is nearing completion, and limited passenger-rail service was allowed to return earlier this month, OCTA officials said in a press release.
The framework also calls for seeking necessary funding for lasting solutions to keep rail traffic safely moving between San Diego and Orange counties, and destinations further north, they said.
The California State Senate Transportation Committee has established the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Resiliency Subcommittee to focus on the issues at San Clemente, OCTA officials said. Members will examine the entire 351-mile rail line from San Diego to San Luis Obispo to ensure its resiliency.
"This is a critical link in Southern California’s rail network. Addressing both the current emergency situation, and planning for our rail future, are top priorities for the OCTA board," said OCTA Chair Gene Hernandez.
The framework will include a phased approach. The first phase will examine short- and medium-term solutions, then the second phase will examine long-term solutions upon securing funding. Phase I is expected to cost $2 million, with grant funding already identified, OCTA officials said. Future costs for making necessary improvements to the 7-mile rail line to ensure stability would also be identified through the study.