LOS ANGELES-SAN DIEGO RAIL CORRIDOR AGENCY BOOSTS AMTRAK SERVICE WITH $27 MILLION GRANT

Increase in Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Service

On January 13, 2025, the Los Angeles - San Diego - San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency, more commonly known as the LOSSAN Agency, announced that they have received a substantial $27 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This funding aims to enhance the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service, significantly benefiting travelers between Los Angeles and San Diego.

The grant, which is part of the FRA’s Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program, will support the operation of three additional round trips between these two major Californian cities. This increase will bring the total to 13 daily round trips along this popular route, effectively restoring service levels to what they were before the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on travel schedules. This marks a significant milestone for LOSSAN as it is their first successfully awarded federal grant.

Fred Jung, the Vice President of the LOSSAN Agency and also the mayor of Fullerton, expressed the importance of this funding. He stated, "This grant will enable the LOSSAN Agency to restore and enhance Pacific Surfliner train services across this vital corridor, benefiting numerous local communities." With improved service frequencies, the agency anticipates that accessibility to transportation will be better for residents, students, and visitors alike, making train travel a more convenient option.

Spanning 351 miles, the LOSSAN Corridor traverses a beautiful coastal region that covers six counties in Southern California. Notably, it is regarded as the second-busiest intercity passenger rail corridor in the United States, with the Pacific Surfliner being the most heavily utilized Amtrak route supported by the state. Data shows a notable increase in ridership, with over 2 million passengers recorded in 2024—a 20% increase—despite the service being reduced by 16% compared to 2019 levels.

According to Senator Alex Padilla, this federal financing is essential. He noted, “The LOSSAN rail corridor is one of the busiest routes in the country, serving millions of travelers while connecting the coastal region of Southern California.” The restoration of the service will help close the current gaps in the Pacific Surfliner's timetable, moving towards a more consistent hourly train service. The additional round trips are expected to be implemented gradually in March and November of 2025.

In his remarks, Congressman Mike Levin highlighted the importance of these improvements for the community. “Every year, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner connects millions across our region, whether to enjoy local beaches, attend sporting events, or conduct business,” he explained. Levin is thrilled that through strong advocacy, they have secured federal funds to better the service frequency, ultimately providing more travel options to passengers while alleviating congestion.

While this FRA grant specifically supports the additional trips between Los Angeles and San Diego, it will also facilitate service improvements between San Diego and Santa Barbara, as well as between San Diego and San Luis Obispo. Plans for further additional trips in these segments are anticipated for 2026, contingent upon equipment availability and future state funding allocations.

Together, these enhancements and restorations will result in a more consistent and reliable rail service along the coastal corridor. Jung stressed the importance of these improvements in meeting the growing demand for intercity rail travel and addressing congestion issues by offering more reliable rail options.

The Pacific Surfliner enhancements are vital for addressing current transportation needs while supporting regional goals for air quality improvement and meeting local and state mobility objectives. This grant ensures improved access to jobs, education, and recreational opportunities throughout Southern California.

For those looking to travel with Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, more information and bookings are available at pacificsurfliner.com.

About Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner offers a scenic 351-mile route connecting key regions including San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo, with 29 operational stations. It is recognized as the busiest state-supported intercity rail route in the United States. For more travel insights and itinerary planning, visit pacificsurfliner.com.

About the LOSSAN Agency

Established to manage and improve passenger rail services in its designated corridor, the LOSSAN Agency comprises various stakeholders, including railroad owners, operators, and planning agencies. Since taking over the Pacific Surfliner operations in July 2015, the agency has worked relentlessly to enhance revenue, operational performance, and safety in the region. More details are available at lossan.org.