California’s LOSSAN Rail: Resilience & Capacity Upgrades

OCTA’s study aims to protect the crucial **LOSSAN rail corridor** against coastal threats. State funding supports this initiative, enhancing **rail** resilience and capacity for future use.

California’s LOSSAN Rail: Resilience & Capacity Upgrades
October 24, 2025 11:54 am
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Introduction

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is progressing its Coastal Rail Resiliency Study (CRRS), focusing on protecting the 11 km (7 miles) coastal rail segment between Dana Point and the San Diego County line. The OCTA Board of Directors advanced the study earlier this month to identify strategies against erosion, bluff instability, and ocean wave impacts on the rail line.

Study Objectives

The CRRS aims to build upon OCTA’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of passenger and freight rail service, while also protecting coastal access and the environment. This study is part of a broader, multi-agency effort addressing immediate and long-term challenges to a key rail corridor.

Funding and Project Scope

In 2024, the California State Transportation Agency allocated USD 189 million to enhance the resilience and capacity of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor. All measures under this funding are expected to be completed in 2029. The investment focuses on four key project zones, which include stabilising the coastline through rock reinforcement, replenishing beach sand, and restoring public trails. This funding is part of a larger plan to protect coastal transport routes against climate-related risks.

Corridor Challenges and Improvements

The LOSSAN corridor faces capacity and reliability constraints due to single-tracked sections. The San Diego section, in particular, is vulnerable to erosion, landslides, and seismic risks. The broader project includes double-tracking the 96.5 km San Diego section, aiming for full double-track completion by 2035. Additionally, the project encompasses rail realignment, infrastructure renewal in coastal areas, and measures to improve rail traffic.

Corridor Overview

The 565 km LOSSAN rail corridor in Southern California connects San Luis Obispo to San Diego, via Los Angeles. This corridor is crucial for passenger mobility, linking major urban and regional centers. The Pacific Surfliner service utilizes this corridor, experiencing a 20% ridership increase in 2024.

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Conclusion

The Orange County Transportation Authority is undertaking a study to safeguard the LOSSAN rail corridor, supported by state funding allocated to enhance its resilience and capacity. The project involves various improvements, including coastal stabilization and double-tracking, aimed at ensuring the long-term reliability of the rail service.

Company Summary

Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA): The OCTA is advancing the Coastal Rail Resiliency Study, focused on safeguarding the LOSSAN rail corridor along the south Orange County coast.

California State Transportation Agency: This agency allocated USD 189 million in 2024 to enhance the resilience and capacity of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor.

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