The SURF Line Trail Project
Re-imagining the troubled train tracks as the most popular trail in America
The SURF Line Trail Project
Re-imagining the troubled train tracks as the most popular trail in America
the COASTAL TRAIN TRACKS ARE FAILING. WE HAVE 2 OPTIONS:
Option 1) Expensive $20 Billion Tunnel Reroute?
The 65 mile segment of coastal train tracks running from San Diego to San Clemente are failing due to unstoppable erosion on the beach and bluffs. The proposed rerouting of the train tracks via massive tunnels in Del Mar and San Clemente could cost a staggering $20 billion for a poor performing train line with mostly empty trains.
Option 2) Convert the Tracks to a Popular Trail.
The Rail-to-Trail movement is helping cities convert abandoned and struggling rail lines into biking & walking trails that also serve as dynamic community hubs. In total, there are now over 2,000 different rail-to-trails in the U.S. , the most popular of which are New York's High Line and Atlanta's Beltline. Converting these tracks into a backbone infrastructure trail for the region (The Surf Line Trail) would likely result in one of the most popular trails in America.
Get Educated On The Train Versus Trail Issues
There has been a tremendous number of exaggerated claims and misinformation made on behalf of the coastal train. Get the facts including:
- I-5 Highway ridership 250x greater than the Coaster train
- Rail makes up only 0.5% of total freight in San Diego versus 91.4% for trucks.
- Coaster riders are predominantly high income earners.
Become A Surf Line Trail Member
We have a strong environmental, social and economic case to make for the Surf Line Trail. We believe that this great train problem can be turned into a transformative opportunity, but we need your help to make it happen. Join a growing and dedicated team looking to make a big difference with bold and thoughtful action.
the surfline trail project MAP
The Surf Line Trail would stretch 61 miles from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano on one of the world's finest coast lines where our great year round weather will encourage enthusiastic use from walkers, bikers, commuters, adventurers and (of course) surfers.
How would you use the Surf Line Trail?
Share your vision with us HERE.
12 Big Problems of the coastal train
1 & 2. High Cost Tunnels
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
1 & 2. High Cost Tunnels
The cost to reroute 2 miles of coastal bluff tracks through a tunnel under Del Mar is $4Billion (and $16 Billion for San Clemente). This staggering sum will require new taxes and reduce funding for other high priority projects. LEARN MORE
3. Very Low Ridership
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
1 & 2. High Cost Tunnels
Coaster train ridership is very small and has been declining for years. It also predominantly services those in the highest income earning brackets. LEARN MORE
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
Train freight comprises a tiny 0.5% of total freight in San Diego. This small freight volume could easily be absorbed via trucks and/or shipping.
5. Beach Destruction
View All 12 Train Problems
4. Very Low Freight Volumes
Efforts to save the vulnerable and shifting tracks are resulting in both the destruction of our precious beaches and restriction to coastal access. LEARN MORE
6. Not Equitable
View All 12 Train Problems
View All 12 Train Problems
Coaster ridership is focused predominantly on those in the highest income earning brackets. This is not equitable or just. LEARN MORE
6 Rail-to-Trail benefits of THe SURF Line
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
Trails greatly promote "Active Transportation" like biking and walking, a key initiative in many cities including San Diego. Learn More
2. Fosters Community + Culture
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
Rail-to-Trails are generating unique and powerful ways for people to foster community and culture. LEARN MORE
View All 6 Trail Benefits
1. More Biking & Walking (Improved Health)
View All 6 Trail Benefits
Famous Rail-To-TrailS & the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy
The Atlanta BeltLine
The New York High Line
The New York High Line
The Atlanta Beltline is a transformative rail-to-trail project that has redefined the city and has generated over $10 Billion in economic value.
The New York High Line
The New York High Line
The New York High Line
The High Line converted an elevated train line in Manhattan into an iconic trail that attracts over 8 million visitors per year and has added billions of dollars in economic value.
The Island Line Trail
Rails-To-Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Rails-To-Trails Conservancy (RTC)
The Island Line Trail in Burlington, Vermont is one of the the top attractions in the city and may just be one of the coolest rail conversions ever.
Rails-To-Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Rails-To-Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Rails-To-Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Established in 1986, The Rails To Trail Conservancy is on a mission. There are over 2,000 different rail to trails in the U.S. totaling over 25,000 miles of trails. LEARN MORE