#USA #LOSSAN Agency #Pacific Surfliner #Goleta #Amtrak Service

Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® Service Suspension Announcement

The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency has made a pivotal announcement regarding the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service. From August 1 to August 16, 2025, train services running north of the Goleta station will be temporarily suspended. This measure is necessary to facilitate the critical replacement and reconstruction of the 127-year-old Honda Creek Bridge, aiming to enhance both safety and operational efficiency along this vital route.

Reasons Behind the Service Suspension

The Honda Creek Bridge is a significant piece of infrastructure located in Santa Barbara County, integral to the LOSSAN corridor, which spans 351 miles and supports essential passenger and freight services across multiple counties, including Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. Managed by Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and funded through California state grants with additional support from UPRR, this bridge replacement project aims to improve long-term service reliability for train passengers and enhance operational efficiency. By replacing this aging structure, the project will not only reduce travel times but also increase passenger capacity and reliability, all while lowering greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating current speed restrictions.

Adjustments During the Suspension Period

During the closure period, several service adjustments will be implemented:
1. Track Closure: The corridor between Goleta and San Luis Obispo will be closed, therefore suspending all train services starting Friday, August 1, until Saturday, August 16. All trains will either originate or terminate at Goleta during this time. Service is expected to resume on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
2. Bus Connections: For travelers needing to reach destinations north of Goleta, alternative bus transportation will be provided. Bus services will connect riders from the Santa Barbara train station to San Luis Obispo. The bus connections will cater specifically to trains 774 and 794 traveling south and trains 761 and 779 heading north, following Route 17, with stops at UC Santa Barbara, Solvang, Buellton, Santa María, and Grover Beach. Regular schedules for Route 17 will remain operational during this period.

Continuation of Services

For additional details, engaging with the Pacific Surfliner’s website is highly encouraged. The Pacific Surfliner operates along a stunning coastal route covering 351 miles, serving 29 stations throughout San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. It stands out as the most frequented intercity passenger train service supported by the state in the United States.

The LOSSAN Agency, which manages the Pacific Surfliner service since July 2015, is committed to enhancing rail service reliability, boosting passenger numbers, increasing revenue, ensuring punctuality, and improving overall safety in the corridor.

For more information and to plan your trip, please visit Pacific Surfliner.

Conclusion

While the temporary suspension of the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service poses an inconvenience to many travelers, it is an essential step towards securing a safer and more reliable rail service for the future. Enhanced infrastructure will ensure sustainable travel options for both current and future passengers.