Proposed train yard project in Calif. described as a ‘nuisance’ by one resident

Officials are looking into light-rail expansion between Alexandria and Quantico.

Progress Rail

Residents of San Luis Obispo, Calif., are not happy about a proposed train yard project, with one calling it a “nuisance” on social media.

The public will have its say about the Central Coast Layover Facility project during a Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency virtual meeting on March 10. However, LOSSAN is reminding residents that it is a state agency and not subject to local zoning regulations.

The site is about 8.3 acres and borders Santa Barbara, Bishop and Rachel streets. The project will include the construction of a new rail yard, storage and servicing tracks, operations and maintenance buildings, landscape and pedestrian improvements, and safety and security features. When finished, the facility will offer maintenance of equipment at the northern terminus of the corridor, hold additional passenger trains (Pacific Surfliner) overnight and will allow for a second morning departure from San Luis Obispo. Up to five new tracks will be constructed.

An environmental impact report will need to be filed once the project is approved by an 11-member governing board of directors representing rail owners, operators, and planning agencies along the rail corridor.

Residents are mostly concerned about the additional noise and safety risks a new facility would bring to the area.

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