Emergency work is underway on coastal railroad tracks near San Clemente, where service has repeatedly been suspended due to bluff erosion. The Orange County Transportation Authority, known as OCTA, is overseeing the latest repairs.
Service in San Clemente halted again in late April for emergency rail work scheduled to continue for five more weeks. Over the past four years, service in the area has shut down multiple times because of erosion and the need for repairs.
OCTA identified four areas needing immediate attention. The current work involves bringing in more large boulders, known as riprap, to repair and reinforce existing structures along the rail line.
Repairs include the installation of 7,700 tons of boulders. An OCTA spokesperson stated these boulders are the first step to preventing more closures in the area.
A longer-term solution involves sand replenishment, though the source for the sand has not yet been located. Meanwhile, rail service between San Diego and Orange County remains suspended.
The closure affects Metrolink's Orange County and Inland Empire-Orange County lines, as well as Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains traveling through the area. Metrolink will continue operating southbound trains as far as the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo station; passengers can check Metrolink service updates.
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is running modified service with bus connections provided between Irvine and Oceanside. Travelers are directed to Pacific Surfliner advisories for schedule information.
The recurring track issues and the need for stabilization are part of broader infrastructure concerns in the region. Protecting the rail corridor and beaches has been a focus, with the California Coastal Commission recently approving an emergency permit request for stabilization and sand replenishment. This work coincides with preparations for the 2028 Olympics, where events are planned in San Clemente and nearby Trestles, anticipating increased visitors.
Other infrastructure projects in the Fifth District of Orange County aim to enhance regional readiness, including the Dana Point Harbor revitalization. The harbor project is expected to contribute to job creation and economic vitality, aiming for completion by 2028.
"We make sure that this rail line is secured because it is such a vital rail line for millions of passengers who use it annually," said Eric Carpenter, a spokesperson for OCTA.
