Additional Rail Proposed for North Capistrano Touted as 'Safety' Improvement

From Supervisor Pat Bates ... this is, of course, referring to the second section of tracks that OCTA wants Capistrano to bless before allowing an improved crossing into the Rancho Capistrano property ... safety...I suppose. Definitely allows more capacity.

OCTA Explores Enhancing Rail Safety in San Juan Capistrano

Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) staff members continue to work with officials from the City of San Juan Capistrano to explore opportunities to enhance rail safety and operational efficiencies. In response to recent concerns from residents about the City’s discussions on the potential for a side-tracking proposal, I directed OCTA staff to devote more time to educate the community about the ongoing discussions.

To clarify, any railroad side track proposal would entail side tracking for less than two miles from Trabuco Creek to the northern city limit, adjacent to the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station. As such, there will be no extension of the side track (which would provide a passing lane for trains) beyond the Trabuco Creek Bridge.

OCTA is in support the City Council’s position that opposes any extension beyond Trabuco Creek to ensure there will be no impact to the San Juan Capistrano historic district. The goal of this effort is to enhance efficiency and safety for improved train operations.

Comments

[Jim Reardon]

This Press Release from the Supervisor's office illustrates why we need a new City Council in San Juan Capistrano.

First, it should be made clear that the Supervisor has endorsed one of our City Council members (a Democrat) who would be more than pleased to vote for double tracks in our town if he can find the political cover to do so.

Without hesitation, and with remarkable timing on the day before the election, the Supervisor attempts to redefine the question. The tracks shall be "less than" two miles, "adjacent" to the Laguna Niguel station. What is proposed is an extension of two main tracks south from Laguna Niguel to the Trabuco Creek bridge. All this discussion of "side rails" is meaningless. At the north end of this track extension, the so-called "side rail" is connected directly to the second main line in Laguna Niguel. Hence, it's an extension of the second main line.

As for "OCTA (being) in support of the City Council's position...", this is pure bullshit. OCTA can offer the City nothing in the way of assurance. OCTA's ownership of these tracks subject to Federal authority and they cannot relinquish future rights to double-tracks -- even through our historic downtown. Our present City Council is only too willing to accept this fantasy to further their dream of developing the Rancho Capistrano area.

Incidentally, to reinforce this point, there were historically two main tracks through San Juan's downtown and the right-of-way to put them back still exists.

It's time for an honest discussion of this whole question. Our City cannot stop the railroad. Those on the Council who claim to be "concerned" are pandering for your vote. OCTA is the owner of the right-of-way, but their ownership is subject to numerous State and Federal restrictions that provide for the free passage of trains -- freight trains -- without limitation.

The Supervisor's message is timed and designed to prop-up a political campaign in our town. It won't help us to live with the growth in train traffic through our historic areas.

We need a new approach on the City Council.