New Leadership Appointed for LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Board in 2026

The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency has announced a significant update in its leadership structure for 2026. Fred Strong, a Councilmember from Paso Robles, has been appointed as the new Chair of the Board of Directors, while Jewel Edson, a City Council Member from Solana Beach, steps in as Vice Chair. This announcement marks a new chapter for the agency, which oversees the operations of the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® train service, one of the busiest intercity rail routes in the United States.

Fred Strong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the board, emphasizing the pivotal role passenger rail plays in connecting communities and bolstering economic development. With over 35 years of experience as a transportation advocate and civic leader, Strong aims to collaborate closely with board members and agency staff to foster a resilient and reliable rail corridor.

Strong represents the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG) on the LOSSAN Board. His extensive background includes active participation in various regional and national transportation organizations, which positions him well to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing services and promoting ridership.

In her role as Vice Chair, Jewel Edson brings her distinctive leadership style characterized by transparency and creative solutions. As a small business owner and a representative of the North County Transportation District (NCTD) on the board, Edson is keen to contribute to the agency's forward strategies. She emphasized the importance of informed decision-making and collaborative governance as essential tools for progress in intercity rail services.

The LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency comprises an 11-member board consisting of officials representing different rail stakeholders along the corridor, highlighting the need for collaboration across multiple jurisdictions. The collaborative nature of the board is intended to drive initiatives that will not only improve service but also increase ridership along the Pacific Surfliner route.

The Pacific Surfliner travels a scenic 351-mile route along California's coast, connecting key locations from San Diego up to San Luis Obispo, and serves 29 stations in total. As the second busiest state-supported intercity passenger rail route in the U.S., it plays a crucial role in the state's transportation framework.

Looking ahead, the new leadership is poised to implement enhancements to rider experience and operational performance in a way that emphasizes safety and efficiency. The agency is committed to investing in its long-term success, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of passengers while maintaining high standards of service quality.

With Fred Strong's depth of expertise and Jewel Edson's focus on transparency and collaboration, the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency stands ready to address the challenges of the future, engage with communities, and create a robust intercity rail network that serves as a model for others. As both leaders step into their new roles, the agency's vision of a reliable, efficient rail service remains steadfast, ensuring that the Pacific Surfliner continues to be a vital component of transport links across Southern California.

For further details on the agency's initiatives and updates, you can visit the official website: LOSSAN.org. The agency is focused on increasing operational flexibility and enhancing passenger experiences as it strives to encourage more individuals to choose rail travel as a sustainable and efficient transport option.

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