Passenger rail service through San Clemente will be suspended for approximately 6 weeks, beginning Monday, April 28, to allow for crews to safely conduct emergency construction aimed at stabilizing sections of track at immediate risk from landslides and coastal erosion.
The Orange County Transportation Authority, in coordination with Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, is taking action to protect the only coastal rail link between San Diego and Orange counties, following continued threats from the privately owned bluffs and from coastal erosion and storm surges.
The emergency work is focused on priority areas in San Clemente along the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor (LOSSAN), identified through engineering analysis where recent landslides have already caused significant damage.
The closure affects both Metrolink’s Orange County and Inland Empire-Orange County lines, as well as Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner trains through the area.
Metrolink:
During this closure, Metrolink Orange County Line & Inland Empire-Orange County Line trains will originate & terminate at the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station.
There will be no alternate transportation available between Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo and Oceanside during this service suspension.
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner:
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service will continue to operate modified service between San Luis Obispo and San Juan Capistrano, as well as between Oceanside and Downtown San Diego. Bus connections will be provided between Irvine and Oceanside.