Updated:  10.17.24

PROJECT STATUS

The initial site analysis and conceptual design of the Leucadia At-Grade Rail Crossings project was funded in FY 21/22.  An engineering contract was awarded for preliminary design and on June 29, 2023, the city hosted a site visit and diagnostic meeting with NCTD, and the CPUC to evaluate the concept plans and viability of the CPUC application.   The CPUC recommended a grade separation feasibility study be completed prior to submitting the formal application.  That study is in progress and the preliminary engineering design, and formal application are anticipated to be completed in late fall/winter 2024. 

BACKGROUND

Leucadia At-Grade Rail Crossings Project (WC22A/CS24B)

The rail corridor bisects the community of Leucadia and impedes travel between dense residential development and an elementary school on the east side of the rail corridor; and the beach, residences and thriving business district on the west. There is a high volume of pedestrian and cyclist activity in the area; however, legal pedestrian crossings are only available at the far north end of Leucadia at La Costa Avenue or at Leucadia Boulevard to the south.  This leaves a 1.3-mile gap in the heart of the community without a safe, legal place to cross the railroad tracks.

The crossing locations at Grandview/Hillcrest and Glaucus were selected based on community input gathered through the City’s Cross Connect study.   The locations will also tie in with the pathways and pedestrian crossings along the Leucadia Streetscape N. Coast Highway 101 improvements.  This project will require coordination with North County Transit District (NCTD) and BNSF Railway; and requires approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).

The City has completed the initial studies and conceptual designs for the 2 at grade crossings.  Click here to view the North Leucadia Pedestrian & Bicycle At-Grade Crossings Study.

The City is now moving to prepare a full CPUC application and preliminary engineering design for these 2 identified crossing locations.  This should take between 12-18 months to complete.