Though rail service resumed in March, OCTA is pushing ahead on a study to find lasting solutions to prevent additional emergencies by addressing other areas in need of reinforcement.
The OCTA-led Coastal Rail Resiliency Study aims to evaluate and implement strategies to fortify the railway in the vulnerable 7-mile stretch between Dana Point and the San Diego County Line and to keep rail traffic moving through the area for the next 30 years while longer-term solutions are explored.
The initial assessment identifies seven areas along that stretch in need of reinforcement and monitoring to prevent additional soil and debris from privately owned hillsides from falling into the rail right of way. The potential solutions are meant to protect the track from threats on the coastal and inland side caused by erosion and storm surges, among other risks.
“We understand this rail line is vital for the safe movement of people and goods in Orange County and the region,” said OCTA Chair Tam T. Nguyen. “OCTA is moving forward on many fronts, along with all our partners and stakeholders, to make sure we are protecting the coastal rail line for many years to come.”
Potential solutions for near-term reinforcement include installing monitors to analyze soil or track movement, building additional catchment walls, and engineering placement of large protective boulders (known as riprap) where appropriate.
Bringing in additional sand on the coastal side, as mentioned by community groups and members of the public, is also being studied as part of the longer-term solution.
The immediate goal is to address the areas identified in need of reinforcement as soon as possible before the next storm season arrives. OCTA will continue to work with local, state and federal partners and explore all funding options.
At the same time, OCTA is working on the Coastal Rail Resiliency Study, meeting with groups of stakeholders in individual listening sessions to discuss the study and get input all along the way.
Two listening sessions with the public are planned:
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Virtual
5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Zoom link: https://bit.ly/CRRS-PublicMtg1
Webinar ID: 871 3383 6211
Call in: +1 (669) 900-6833
Por teléfono en español: +1 (571) 317-3112
Código de acceso: 625-161-933
Thursday, May 30, 2024
In person
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
San Clemente City Hall
910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673 To register to attend either meeting and receive updates, please visit here.