Subject
title
Use of State Funds for Ongoing Coastal Rail - Emergency Railroad Maintenance
overview
Overview
In early summer 2026, large ocean swells, known as king tides, reached the Southern California coastline and damaged the railroad embankment along the coastal rail corridor in the cities of Dana Point and San Clemente. The damage from wave activity was further amplified by Hurricane Marie and Tropical Storm Rachel. Additional weather and tidal events anticipated this winter could further threaten the railroad infrastructure and disrupt passenger and freight rail service.
recommendation
Recommendation(s)
A. Authorize the use of up to $4.958 million in SB 1 (Chapter 5, Statutes of 2017) Local Partnership Program Formulaic funding for ongoing coastal rail emergency railroad maintenance work, contingent on approval by the California Transportation Commission.
B. Authorize staff to make all necessary amendments to the Federal Transportation Improvement Program, and execute any necessary agreements to facilitate Recommendation A.