Passenger Service Temporarily Suspended as Crews Work in San Clemente
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Image of landslide that occurred in San Clemente in Spring of 2024
Courtesy of OCTA
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. - Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service will be suspended for six weeks starting Monday, April 28th. During this six-week closure, crews will work on emergency construction to stabilize the track.
According to OCTA, it will work with Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to protect the at-risk track from landslides and erosion. Crews will focus their efforts in San Clemente in previously-identified areas by reinforcing vulnerable areas of track. RT&S has recently reported on four areas of priority. This closure will affect the Orange County and Inland Empire-Orange County lines and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner trains. Metrolink trains will continue to travel south toward Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo station. Amtrak Pacific Surfliner will operate modified service. Details on schedule and routes can be found here.
Previously, the California Coastal Commission issued an emergency Coastal Development Permit to remove the pedestrian bridge and allow crews to replace sand and make repairs to riprap. OCTA states the package of emergency measures to protect the infrastructure include: reinforcing three locations with around 8,150 tons of riprap and sand nourishment; constructing a 1,400-foot catchment wall; restoring pedestrian access; and coordinating with partners to secure future permits for further protection.
Early next month, OCTA states a hearing with the Coastal Commission will look to “address the most urgent threats identified.” Additionally, it will work to advance environmental clearance and “long-term coastal resiliency strategies, including sand placement.”
OCTA and Metrolink Chair Doug Chaffee said, “This temporary closure allows our teams to safely carry out urgent reinforcement work to protect rail passengers, freight operations and public safety. . . While we recognize the inconvenience, this action is necessary to preserve the long-term integrity of this vital rail link.”
Additional Reading
- OCTA Submits Emergency Coastal Develop Permit 4/01
- OCTA Board of Directors Authorizes Emergency Actions for San Clemente 4/17
