California Secures $27 Million Grant to Enhance Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® Services

California's Pacific Surfliner to Receive Major Upgrade

In a significant investment for public transportation, the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency has been awarded a federal grant of $27 million by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This funding is earmarked for enhancing the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service, particularly between Los Angeles and San Diego. The grant falls under the FRA's Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program, aiming to support the recovery and improvement of vital rail connections in the region.

As a result of this funding, three additional round trips will be reinstated, bringing the total number of daily Pacific Surfliner services to 13. This marks a vital step in restoring the service to pre-pandemic levels, thus revitalizing travel options for local communities and visitors alike. Fred Jung, Vice-Chair of the LOSSAN Agency and Mayor of the City of Fullerton, expressed enthusiasm about the impact of this funding, stating, "This grant will enhance the Pacific Surfliner service on this important route, benefiting a wide range of local communities."

The LOSSAN corridor stretches approximately 351 miles, traversing six counties along Southern California's coastline. It stands as the second busiest intercity passenger rail corridor in the United States, with the Pacific Surfliner serving a total of 29 stations. Despite a 16% decrease in service since 2019, the Pacific Surfliner has seen a 20% increase in passenger numbers in 2024, exceeding 2 million riders. This continued demand illustrates the strong interest and reliance on rail services in the area.

The $27 million grant will cover operational costs necessary to resume these additional train services over a period of up to six years. Senator Alex Padilla emphasized the significance of the grant, noting, "This federal funding will restore service levels to pre-pandemic standards, leading to more efficient and reliable transportation choices."

The reintroduction of these services is expected to address existing gaps in the Pacific Surfliner timetable, promoting more consistent hourly train operations. The 11th and 12th round trips are scheduled to be implemented in March 2025, with the 13th trip to follow in November 2025. Congressman Mike Levin remarked, "Every year, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner connects millions in our region, whether it's taking fans to Padres games or facilitating travel to local business districts and beaches. This train service is a crucial part of our community."

While the RE grant specifically targets restoring the route between Los Angeles and San Diego, it also lays the groundwork for potential enhancements in services between San Diego and Santa Barbara, as well as San Diego and San Luis Obispo. Further expansions could see additional round trips added on these routes, contingent on equipment availability and future state funding arrangements.

Mayor Fred Jung highlighted the broader implications of this investment, stating, "These restorations will provide a more consistent and reliable rail service throughout the coastal corridor, helping meet the growing demand for intercity travel while relieving current congestion issues."

The revitalization of the Pacific Surfliner service is a crucial element in addressing current and future transportation needs in Southern California. It plays a significant role in improving air quality and supports state and local mobility goals while enhancing access to employment, education, and recreational opportunities for residents.

For travelers looking to plan their trips or learn more about the service, further information can be found at pacificsurfliner.com. The Pacific Surfliner Route serves a scenic 351-mile stretch of coastal railroad, connecting key destinations such as San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. As the nation's busiest state-supported intercity passenger rail line, the Pacific Surfliner stands as a testament to the importance of efficient rail travel in America’s robust transportation network.

About LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency

The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency is a joint powers authority made up of rail operators, owners, and planning agencies across the LOSSAN corridor. Since taking on management of the Pacific Surfliner service under a cooperative agreement with the state of California in July 2015, the LOSSAN Agency has focused on boosting ridership, revenue, on-time performance, and safety measures across its network.

For additional details or media inquiries, please contact Jason Jewell at the LOSSAN Agency or reach out to Sanaz Fakhimi from The ACE Agency, representing LOSSAN Agency.