Protecting the Pacific Surfliner: A High-Stakes Battle Against Coastal Erosion

Four Critical Areas

Orange County transportation officials have secured approval from the California Coastal Commission to expedite the placement of sand and rock along the Pacific Surfliner rail line in San Clemente, a critical step in protecting the rail line from landslides and coastal erosion. The application focuses on four main areas most vulnerable to failures from landslides and erosion.

• San Clemente’s shoreline, which has been eroding for decades
• The bluff above the rail line, which has collapsed multiple times in recent years
• The beach nourishment area, where sand has been lost in recent years
• The bridge’s foundation, which has also shown signs of erosion

These areas require immediate attention to prevent further damage to the rail line, which has been shut down for months due to landslides and closures.

The Plan

Transportation leaders plan to add up to 540,000 cubic yards of sand and about 6,500 cubic yards of riprap placement and repair along the rail line. They also plan to add 22,000 cubic yards of a new revetment or seawall. The rock portion of the project, which is expected to be completed in four weeks, will help to stabilize the bluff above the rail line. The sand portion, which is expected to be completed in 2027, will help to replenish the beach and prevent erosion.

Challenges Ahead

However, the project is not without its challenges. The transportation agency has estimated that repairing the riprap will only take a matter of weeks, while the sand portion of the project is expected to take two years. County leaders are also working to find alternative sources of sand, including offshore sand sources. They are also exploring the possibility of removing the Mariposa Pedestrian Bridge to make space for a 1400-foot catchment wall to prevent coastal bluff movements.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental advocates have criticized the use of riprap, saying it speeds up sand erosion. They argue that the placement of rocks and boulders along the coastline can create turbulence, leading to increased erosion. Suzie Whitelaw, president of the Save Our Beaches San Clemente, said,

“Every time the waves hit the boulders, it creates a lot of turbulence, and that creates a lot of erosion right in front of the rocks.”

She emphasizes the importance of using sand to replenish the beach, rather than rocks. “If they put the sand out with the rocks and put a wide beach out in front of it, it wouldn’t be as bad. But to have those rocks right there at the coastline, it’s just a recipe for disaster.”

Response from Officials

County transportation officials have responded to environmental concerns by emphasizing the importance of addressing the emergency situation. “Emergency action is necessary to prevent additional disruption of vital rail service,” reads a statement from OCTA. However, Supervisor Doug Chaffee, the chair of the transportation authority’s board, praises the move in a video published after the meeting, saying “These efforts are essential to preserving service along the LOSSAN corridor.”

Next Steps

The transportation agency plans to put out a request for information on sand dredger availability and award a contract next year. They are also working with the City of San Clemente to explore nearby offshore sand sources. The removal of the Mariposa Pedestrian Bridge is also planned, and a new 1400-foot catchment wall will be built to prevent coastal bluff movements.

Conclusion

The approval of the transportation agency’s plan to place sand and rock along the Pacific Surfliner rail line is a critical step in protecting the rail line from landslides and coastal erosion. However, environmental concerns remain, and it is unclear whether the use of riprap will exacerbate the problem. The transportation agency plans to continue exploring alternative solutions, including the use of sand to replenish the beach. Only time will tell if their efforts will be successful in preserving the safety and stability of the rail line.