03/08/18 - Coaster/Amtrak Service Update

While work continues on the San Elijo Joint Powers land outfall pipeline, there are other local projects in the region. Below is an update from SANDAG on the upcoming work affecting train service.

Build NCC construction projects occurring along the coastline of Encinitas and Solana Beach are specifically affecting the four miles of Cardiff railroad tracks over the next few weeks starting March 4th. Residents, COASTER passengers, local businesses and traffic along the Coast Highway between Lomas Santa Fe Drive and Encinitas Boulevard may experience some noise, slowed traffic, and detours. This project is part of the larger $1 billion Lossan Double Track Effort between Orange County & downtown San Diego.

The construction of the new rail bridge, and restoration work in the San Elijo Lagoon is being coordinated by SANDAG. SANDAG estimated that by 2030 passenger and freight rail services in San Diego will have doubled. Increasing local rail capacity provides a stable, environmentally friendly alternate choice of transportation for both people and goods. This project will not only help reduce the number of cars on Interstate 5 but also lead to an overall reduction in air pollution from traffic. The project is expected to be completed by late 2019. More information about the overall project can be found here.

Over the next two weekends, all Coaster and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner services from San Diego-Los Angeles-San Luis Obispo (Lossan) coastal rail corridor will be suspended as a result of a planned and temporary closure of the rail corridor, known as an Absolute Work Window (AWW). This means that all rail traffic will need to be stopped so the SANDAG crews can perform critical work on the railroad that would not normally be possible while trains are operating. Expect temporary day and night time noise and lights during construction hours starting at 8 p.m. Friday evening through 3 a.m. Monday morning. There will be no replacement transportation service connection to the COASTER station stops so customers should plan accordingly. The rail will re-open for regularly scheduled COASTER, Amtrak, and freight service in time for the morning commute on Monday.

This work will significantly improve San Diego’s transportation, environmental and coastal access. During construction the NCC, SANDAG, and NCTD will be working hard to minimize noise, traffic delays, and other impact on the community. This project is temporary and will result in an great improvement in the quality of life for Cardiff residents. In the meantime, all of the organizations working on this project are very grateful for your patience and understanding as these improvements are made.

You can also stay informed about train service updates by visiting GoNCTD.com, Amtrak.com, or MetrolinkTrains.com . For all other concerns, questions or general inquiries about feel free to call (858) 549-RAIL or visit KeepSanDiegoMoving.com