The Oceanside Transit Center is preparing to serve twice as many trains.
A third train platform and track will be built at the station as part of the LOSSAN rail corridor improvements, which extend from San Luis Obispo to San Diego.
Linda Culp, a principal planner with SANDAG, San Diego’s transport planning agency, said the additional platform and track will give trains a place to park, and allow service to increase from 65 to about 100 trains a day.
The short-term inconvenience of construction will bring long-term benefits for passengers, Culp said.
“One of the challenges is not having enough service," Culp said. “So projects like the one here at Oceanside will allow additional service, and therefore will increase your options as a train rider.”
Station walkways, shelters, seating and information signs will also see upgrades.
An information table was set up at the station to share construction news with travelers and commuters this week.
Passengers were told boarding platforms and station parking will remain open while work is being done.
Riders will be notified of any temporary service interruptions through station signage and online updates.
Work on the $24 million project is expected to begin next month, and be completed in a year and a half.
San Diego County LOSSAN rail corridor improvements include more than 20 projects, and carry a total price tag of $1 billion. Work began two years ago to add a second track on the line between Oceanside and San Diego, and replace bridges and bike paths. The completion date for the projects is projected to be 2030, or when funds become available.
“When we're finished we'll be able to add more trains that get you out of your car, and that's our goal,” Culp said.
Currently, two-thirds of total funding is secured through the TransNet program and state and federal funds.
