Leadership Announcement from the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency for 2026

The LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency recently announced its leadership structure for the coming year, confirming the selection of Fred Strong as chairman and Jewel Edson as vice-chair for 2026. The agency oversees the operations of the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® train service which connects Southern California's vibrant communities along the coast.

Fred Strong, a dedicated public servant and city council member from Paso Robles, shares his excitement about taking on the role of chairman. He expressed, "I am honored to serve as president of the LOSSAN Agency. Passenger rail has long played a crucial role in connecting our communities and supporting economic opportunities. I look forward to working closely with my fellow board members, agency staff, and regional partners to enhance the Pacific Surfliner service and advance a resilient, reliable rail corridor for the future."

With over 35 years of civic leadership experience, Fred Strong brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. He has served on various transportation boards, including representing the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG) on the LOSSAN board, which showcases his dedication to effective transportation advancements in the region.

Joining Strong is Jewel Edson, a Solana Beach City Council member, who will serve as the vice-chair. Edson emphasized her enthusiasm for assuming this collaborative leadership role, stating, "I am pleased to take on the vice-chair position and contribute to the collaborative leadership of the LOSSAN Agency. Transparent decision-making, informed planning, and creative problem-solving are essential as we continue to improve intercity rail service for the communities we serve along the corridor."

Edson, who represents the North County Transit District (NCTD) on the LOSSAN board, is known for her energetic leadership style and commitment to transparency, integrity, and informed decision-making.

As the agency continues to enhance its services, it looks forward to benefitting from the combined expertise and leadership of Strong and Edson. Jason Jewell, the executive director of the LOSSAN Agency, commented, "Their combined experience, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to regional collaboration will be invaluable as we continue to improve service levels, increase passenger numbers, and invest in the long-term success of the Pacific Surfliner service."

The LOSSAN Agency is governed by an 11-member board, consisting of officials representing rail owners, operators, and planning agencies throughout the LOSSAN Rail Corridor that stretches from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. This framework allows for an inclusive approach to advancing commuter rail service standards.

The agency took over management of the Pacific Surfliner in July 2015; since then, it has been dedicated to improving passenger numbers, revenue, on-time performance, operational flexibility, and overall train safety. Under the new leadership, there is an optimistic outlook for further growth and advancement within California's railway system.

For more detailed information about LOSSAN and its endeavors, visit LOSSAN.org.

About the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency

Established to enhance rail service along the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo corridor, the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency is a joint powers authority that works in collaboration with various stakeholders. The Pacific Surfliner, which runs for 351 miles alongside California's picturesque coast, is the second-busiest state-sponsored intercity passenger rail service in the United States, providing essential connectivity for commuters and travelers alike. For those interested in experiencing the beauty and efficiency of travel along this corridor, more details can be found at pacificsurfliner.com.