Del Mar, Calif., rail fence project faces another delay; new concern over accelerating bluff erosion

Written by RT&S Staff
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SANDAG

Fence installation along tracks in Del Mar has another bare spot that must be filled.

The North County Transit District announced it wants to do more studies before the project commences, and ongoing public resistance also is still creating delays.

The original completion date of fence along the rail right-of-way that stretches across the Del Mar cliffs in California was by the end of the year. That date was then pushed back to 2021 when Del Mar residents complained that the 6-ft-high chain-link fence would destroy housing values and scenic views. Crews would install the barrier only in spots where there was a high trespassing rate on District tracks in Oceanside, Encinitas, and Del Mar. Officials were supposed to use the extra time to work with the public and other agencies, including the California Coastal Commission.

Late last week it was announced that the construction contract on the Del Mar fence would be awarded no sooner than Dec. 31.

A study just approved will cost just under $400,000 and will include survey, design, mapping and detailing of the right-of-way for fence construction for a 1.4-mile stretch of track in Del Mar. The North County Transit District also has been informed of another concern with putting up a barrier on the bluffs. Some believe digging holes for the fence post will accelerate bluff erosion, which continues to be an ongoing problem.

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