Status: Construction
Location: Corona
Type of Project: Express Lanes
Location: Interstate 15 and Route 91, Corona
Construction: April 2021; anticipated opening in 2023
Investment: $270 million
RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, is building the 15/91 Express Lanes Connector, which will link the 15 Express Lanes to the 91 Express Lanes. A new connection will be provided from the eastbound 91 Express Lanes to the northbound 15 Express Lanes and from the southbound 15 Express Lanes to the westbound 91 Express Lanes.
The 15/91 Express Lanes Connector is designed to provide a seamless transition between these Riverside County tolling systems for reliable, convenient travel for residents of Corona, Norco, Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, and points north in San Bernardino County, as well as express buses. The project also will extend both the eastbound 91 outside general purpose lane and the eastern end of the 91 Express Lanes approximately one-half mile east to Promenade Avenue to help with vehicle merging in this area.
The project will:
The project is fully funded, and RCTC awarded a design-build contract in April 2020. Construction began in April 2021. The connector is anticipated to open in 2023.
Construction began in April 2021, and the connector is expected to open in 2023. During construction, four single-direction weekend closures of the connectors are planned, as well as periodic nighttime lane closures of the connectors and on Route 91. To register for updates, use the Contact Us form below or follow the project on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @1591connector.
ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTS
Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/EIR):
The Supplemental Project Report and Environmental Revalidation documents were approved in June 2019:
The 15/91 Express Lanes Connector project will require nightly closures on southbound 15 from Hidden Valley Parkway to the 91, Monday, May 15 to Friday, May 19.
For more information, click here.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: State Route 71/State Route 91 Interchange, Corona
Construction: Early 2023 to 2025
Investment: Estimated $137 million (construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans, is reconstructing the 71/91 Interchange Project in Corona. Construction will take place from early 2023 to 2025.
The 71/91 Interchange serves as a gateway between Riverside, Orange and San Bernardino Counties and is a vital link for commuters and freight vehicles that travel along the 91 and the 71. The new non-tolled interchange is designed to improve safety, expand access to other modes of travel, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance traffic flow. The project will support continued movement through this area by native wildlife such as mountain lions, bobcats, and coyotes.
The project will:
Caltrans approved the environmental document in June 2011, and RCTC completed final design for the project in June 2015. RCTC received the final piece of funding in December 2020 to improve this congested and operationally deficient interchange. In June 2021, RCTC awarded a construction management contract and expects to release the project for bids in early 2022. Construction will begin in early 2023, and the new interchange is expected to open in 2025.
Construction will begin in early 2023 and be completed in 2025. Construction likely would occur in stages to minimize disruption to motorists through this heavily traveled corridor.
Coming Soon.
Nighttime closures of eastbound 91 are scheduled for the weekend of June 9-12.
For detailed closure information and detour maps, please visit rctc.org/7191closures.
Status: Construction
Location: Eastbound and westbound 91 between the Lincoln Ave Interchange and Interstate 15 in Corona
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Eastbound and westbound 91 between the Lincoln Ave Interchange and Interstate 15 in Corona
Construction: Anticipated from summer 2022 to spring 2023
Investment: $12.6 million
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans, is repaving lanes and making repairs to sound walls and associated concrete barriers along the outer portions of eastbound and westbound 91 in Corona. Work will take place mainly between the Lincoln Ave interchange and Interstate 15, in an area with a long history of roadway settlement. This work is part of an ongoing investment in the heavily traveled 91 corridor.
The “91 Refresh” work will take place during the summer of 2022 through spring of 2023. Temporary lane shifts, weekend full closures, and lane closures will allow crews to safely complete the repaving and repair work. The lane shifts will help preserve the current number of lanes available to motorists and reduce the number of required nightly lane closures and weekend closures. Work on surface streets also will occur.
Please register for email updates at 91Refresh@rctc.org or text “91REFRESH” to 77222 for text updates.
Work will occur from June 2022 and is expected to be completed by spring 2023. Schedules may change, due to weather, material availability, and staffing.
Lane shifts, lane closures, and weekend closures will be needed starting June 20. Please watch for updates related to this work.
This section of the 91 has a long history of roadway settlement. In late 2021 and early 2022, crews strengthened the soil in various locations beneath the 91. The 91 Refresh will remove and replace sections of pavement and repair sound walls and concrete median barriers along the 91.
A weekend full closure of the westbound 91 from I-15 to Lincoln Avenue is scheduled for Friday, January 27 at 10 p.m. to Monday, January 30 at 5 a.m in Corona. Click here for details.
1/29 UPDATE: Westbound 91 McKinley Street off-ramp heading north and south may close temporarily this afternoon. Please avoid the area and use alternate routes. Crews are on track to open the westbound 91 on-time.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Moreno Valley/March Field Station, Riverside
Type of Project: Station Improvement
Location: Moreno Valley/March Field Station, Riverside
Construction: Began in October 2022 and to be completed in spring 2024
Investment: $33 million (construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), in partnership with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink), is upgrading the Moreno Valley/March Field Station in Riverside. This station serves Metrolink’s 91/Perris Valley Line and is the midpoint between the Perris-Downtown Station and the Riverside-Downtown Station. RCTC is the lead agency for this project.
Project benefits and features include:
Construction began in October 2022 and is scheduled to be completed by spring 2024. Project funding is provided by a combination of sources, including a $32 million Federal Transit Administration grant.
Work is expected to start fall 2022 and be completed by approximately spring 2024. Schedules may change, due to weather, material availability, and staffing.
Status: Under Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Riverside County Metrolink Stations
Construction: Various
Investment: Various
For questions related to these projects, email info@rctc.org
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) owns and operates the Metrolink stations in Riverside County. Many improvements are being made to the stations to ensure riders have a positive experience.
See below for more information about each of the projects:
This project will address the needs of Riverside County commuters. Benefits and features include:
Construction is expected to begin in fall 2022 and be completed by spring 2024.
This project will expand the Metrolink train layover facility at the Riverside-Downtown Station. The project will allow more trains to be housed at the station at the end of each night shift, which will allow for more efficient service.
Work began in March 2020 and was completed in May 2021.
This project proposes building an additional passenger loading platform and tracks to improve Metrolink service and extending the existing pedestrian bridge for added elevator and stair access.
Environmental studies and final design are under way and are expected to be completed by 2022.
This project is modernizing elevators at the Corona-North Main and Riverside-Downtown Stations by upgrading parts and installing new technology. The upgrades will allow the elevators to run more smoothly and with less down-time or needed repairs.
Upgrades to the Corona-North Main Station elevators were completed in April 2020. Upgrades to the Riverside-Downtown Station elevators are expected to be completed in June 2020.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Eastbound Route 91, from the 241 Toll Road connector to Route 71
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Eastbound Route 91, from the 241 Toll Road connector to Route 71
Engineering/Environmental Studies: To start in mid-2023 and take 2-3 years
Construction: Dependent on funding
Investment: $5 million (engineering and environmental)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in coordination with Caltrans, the Orange County Transportation Authority, the Transportation Corridor Agencies, and the City of Corona, is proposing to add a lane to eastbound 91 from the 241 Toll Road connector to Route 71 in Corona. The new lane is intended to help improve traffic operations on eastbound 91, especially during afternoon and evening hours.
This highway segment was included in the 2012 environmental document for the 91 Corridor Improvement Project but was deferred due to funding constraints. RCTC expects to award an engineering and environmental contract in mid-2023 to study four design alternatives. These alternatives will require environmental revalidation and an updated scoping document to identify the preferred alternative. This phase of work is expected to take two to three years.
RCTC expects to award an engineering and environmental consultant contract in mid-2023 to study design alternatives, which will require environmental revalidation and an updated scoping document to identify the preferred alternative.
Following the selection of the preferred alternative, RCTC will seek funding for future project phases, including final design and construction. The timing of project delivery is dependent on funding.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Interchange
Location: Interstate 10 Highland Springs Avenue Interchange, Beaumont and Banning
Engineering/Environmental Studies/Final Design: Expected from summer 2022 to 2026
Construction: 2027-2029, depending upon funding
Investment: $25 million (construction)
The Interstate 10 Highland Springs Avenue Interchange Project, informed by preliminary studies conducted in partnership with Caltrans and the cities of Banning and Beaumont, would reconfigure lanes to the I-10 underpass at Highland Springs Avenue and add merging lanes to the ramps to improve traffic flow and safety.
The interchange serves as the main connection to large housing developments and multiple retail, commercial, medical, and employment centers. With one of the highest peak traffic volumes per hour and per month in Riverside County, it also is in proximity to State Route 60, a major trucking and logistics route for southern California and the nation.
RCTC completed the Project Study Report/Project Development Support document in 2021. Engineering, environmental studies, and final design are expected to be under way from summer 2022 to 2026. Once funding and environmental approvals are secured, construction could begin in 2027. RCTC is seeking federal, state, and local funding sources.
RCTC and project partners hosted approximately 120 visitors during a public information meeting on February 27, 2023, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Albert A. Chatigny Senior Community Center in Beaumont. The meeting was held in an open house format with no formal presentation, but attendees were encouraged to meet the team, ask questions, and provide feedback about proposed design options to be studied by the project team.
If you were unable to attend the meeting, please use the links below to review the meeting exhibits.
Please join RCTC and project partners for a Public Information Meeting on February 27, 5:30-7 p.m., to discuss design options to improve this heavily traveled interchange. The meeting will be held in an open house format with no formal presentation, but attendees are encouraged to meet the team, ask questions, and provide feedback.
Monday, February 27, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Albert A. Chatigny Senior Community Center
1310 Oak Valley Pkwy, Beaumont, CA 92223
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Southbound Interstate 15 between Cajalco Road in Corona and Weirick Road in Temescal Valley
Construction: Anticipated completion in 2027
Investment: Estimated $21 million (environmental, design, construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), in partnership with Caltrans, is conducting engineering and environmental studies to support an environmental document and final design documents for the proposed Interstate 15 Corridor Operations Project. RCTC is the project sponsor and Caltrans is the lead agency for the project studies.
The project will improve design features, including lane and shoulder widths, to Caltrans standards between the Cajalco Road and Weirick Road interchanges along southbound I-15, while maintaining compatibility with future I-15 corridor improvements. This will be accomplished by paving the existing center median and shifting lanes towards the newly paved median. Other features include widening the Bedford Wash Bridge within the median on northbound and southbound I-15 and adding median barriers, drainage system improvements, and overhead and roadside signs. No private properties are expected to be affected, since all work would occur in the Caltrans right of way.
RCTC is conducting engineering and environmental studies, as well as the project design.
The environmental phase is expected to be completed by late 2024. Pending project approval, construction could be completed by 2027.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Express Lanes
Location: Interstate 15 between Cajalco Road in Corona and State Route 74 (Central Avenue) in Lake Elsinore
Construction: Could begin as early as 2026
Investment: $550-650 million (estimate for pre-construction, design, construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans, is conducting preliminary engineering and environmental studies to support an Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Assessment for the proposed Interstate 15 Express Lanes Project Southern Extension.
The proposed project would extend the I-15 Express Lanes an additional 14.5 miles. The proposed new segment would extend from Cajalco Road in Corona, through Temescal Valley, to State Route 74 (Central Avenue) in Lake Elsinore. The project proposes adding two tolled express lanes in both directions within the I-15 median to accommodate increasing traffic volumes in Riverside County.
Once built, the project would improve traffic operations and travel times, expand travel choice through carpooling and mass transit, increase travel time reliability, manage long-term traffic congestion, provide a cost-effective mobility solution, and expand and maintain compatibility with the regional express lanes network.
Other project features include widening up to 15 bridges, creating multiple express lane entrance and exit points, as well as building noise barriers, retaining walls, drainage systems, and electronic toll collection equipment and signs.
RCTC received $29 million in state funding in 2018 for the preliminary engineering and environmental studies, and work began for this phase of work in 2019. The public scoping period was held in fall 2019. Currently, RCTC is conducting environmental and engineering studies, which includes field work within the project study area.
The environmental phase of work began in 2019, with an anticipated completion date of 2025, due to the complexity of the project corridor, which crosses multiple jurisdictions, widens up to 15 bridges, and may affect numerous waterways.
Pending project approval, RCTC expects to use a design-build approach to expedite the delivery of the project. Construction could begin as early as 2026 and open in 2028, if RCTC is able to secure funding. The total project cost is estimated to be $550-650 million. RCTC is exploring funding options for construction that may include a combination of federal, state, local, and toll sources.
I-15 ELPSE Scoping Summary Document – Sections 1-5 – Main Body
I-15 ELPSE Scoping Summary Document – Section 6 – Public Comments
The next opportunity for public comment will be when the Draft Environmental Document is available for review.
For questions/comments about this project, please respond below.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Northbound Interstate 15 from the San Diego/Riverside County Line in Temecula to the 15/215 Interchange in Murrieta
Engineering/Environmental Studies: Anticipated completion spring 2023
Construction: Expected to begin in fall 2023
Investment: $25 million (total cost)
RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, the City of Temecula, and the Western Riverside Council of Governments, is proposing an innovative corridor approach for improved traffic operations on northbound I-15 from the San Diego/Riverside County Line in Temecula to the I-15/I-215 Interchange in Murrieta.
The proposed project will use sensors and “smart” technology to continuously monitor real-time traffic conditions on this eight-mile, non-tolled section of I-15. Severe traffic congestion occurs in this area, due to a high volume of vehicles entering the freeway simultaneously, especially during peak afternoon and evening hours. The project will also use ramp meters that work as a coordinated system that adapts to allow more or fewer vehicles to enter I-15 at any given time from the Temecula Parkway, Rancho California Road, and Winchester Road on-ramps.
Designed as a two-year pilot project, the project is anticipated to improve overall traffic flow and reduce rear-end collisions by maintaining steady travel speeds within the I-15 corridor, without highway expansion and related construction costs and impacts.
Drivers may initially experience short delays on the on-ramps but will gain overall time savings once on the freeway, with fewer stops and starts.
RCTC is conducting engineering and environmental studies, as well as project design. Construction is expected to start in fall 2023.
Engineering, environmental studies, and final design are under way. The construction services contract will go to bid later this year with an award anticipated by fall 2023.
Construction, including installing the ”smart” technology, coordinating the on-ramp signal timing, and placing roadside informational signs, is expected to begin in fall 2023 and should take about a year. Operations may start in 2025 and will continue as a pilot project for two years.
During the pilot period, RCTC and Caltrans will evaluate the project to assess its effect on traffic congestion and determine possible expansion of the program statewide. This schedule is subject to change.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Between Moreno Valley/March Field Station (in Riverside) and Perris-South Station
Type of Project: Rail Corridor
Location: Between Moreno Valley/March Field Station (in Riverside) and Perris-South Station
Construction: Dependent upon funding
Investment: Estimated $31 million (technical studies, final design, construction)
RCTC is seeking grant funding for the Metrolink Double Track Project: Moreno Valley-Perris Project between Riverside and Perris. The project will add a second set of tracks between the Moreno Valley/March Field Station and the Perris-South Station.
Once completed, the extended tracks will facilitate Metrolink operations, offer an alternative to driving, and help relieve congestion on Interstate 215 by providing reliable and efficient transit options for Riverside County commuters, who face some of the longest commutes in southern California. The project also will increase access to jobs and education in this traditionally underserved area, reduce air pollution, and help Metrolink achieve its goal of providing bidirectional service every 30 minutes in time for the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.
The project is a vital component of RCTC’s vision to implement safe multimodal solutions in Riverside County’s rapidly growing communities near Perris. Riverside County is growing faster than any county in California and is one of the fastest growing counties in the nation.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Expressway
Location: Western Riverside County between San Jacinto and Perris
Type of Project: Highways
The Mid County Parkway is a planned 16-mile transportation corridor between the San Jacinto and Perris areas. This new east-west facility will open economic opportunities, reduce travel times, and expand access to employment and education for residents and businesses of Riverside County. The improvements will promote transportation equity for this long-underserved area and connect to Route 79, Interstate 215, and transit facilities that support Metrolink’s 91/Perris Valley Line and Riverside Transit Agency routes. With this connection, the Perris and San Jacinto communities will have access to multiple modes of travel.
RCTC is working to deliver the MCP in segments. RCTC has partnered with the County of Riverside on final design of the MCP Ramona Expressway, an 8.6-mile segment from approximately one mile east of Rider Street to Warren Road that experiences a high rate of vehicular accidents. The County of Riverside contributed $1 million toward the cost of future construction of this segment. Final design began in September 2022. If funding is secured, construction could begin in 2025 and take about two years to complete.
The roadway currently has one lane in each direction with a passing lane between 5th Street and Bridge Street. The improvements will provide two lanes in each direction, add a raised median to separate the eastbound and westbound lanes, build a bridge over the San Jacinto River, modify three intersections with traffic signals, install one new signalized intersection, and construct a wildlife crossing. The improvements are focused on safety and access.
Construction of the Interstate 215 Placentia Avenue Interchange in Perris, the first MCP segment, began in August 2020 and opened in December 2022. RCTC has not determined the timing for construction of additional MCP segments; these contracts will depend upon available funds.
Final design of an 8.6-mile segment on Ramona Expressway from approximately one mile east of Rider Street to Warren Road in the County of Riverside began in fall 2022 and construction could begin in 2025.
RCTC also is working to fulfill its environmental mitigation commitments:
Under the Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan, RCTC has acquired more than 177 acres of land to mitigate project impacts to sensitive plants and wildlife.
Final design of MCP Ramona Expressway will begin in fall 2022. Construction could begin in 2025.
Vol I Cover.pdf – 72.17 KB
1.0 Proposed Project.pdf – 5.30 MB
2.0 Project Alternatives.pdf – 56.48 MB
4.0 CEQA.pdf – 763.30 KB
5.0 Comments and Coordination.pdf – 349.48 KB
6.0 List of Preparers.pdf – 41.99 KB
7.0 Distribution List.pdf – 320.69 KB
Master TOC.pdf – 58.38 KB
Summary.pdf – 479.81 KB
3.0 Affected Environment.pdf – 17.96 KB
3.1 Land Use.pdf – 93.26 MB
3.10 Water Quality.pdf – 50.72 MB
3.11 Geology-Soils-Seismic.pdf – 3.72 MB
3.12 Paleontology.pdf – 44.54 MB
3.13 Haz Waste-Matls.pdf – 85.52 MB
3.14 Air Quality.pdf – 327.37 KB
3.15 Noise.pdf – 249.59 MB
3.16 Energy.pdf – 41.02 KB
3.17 Natural Communities.pdf – 5.43 MB
3.18 Wetlands.pdf – 1.14 MB
3.19 Plant Species.pdf – 41.32 KB
3.2 Growth.pdf – 663.85 KB
3.20 Animal Species.pdf – 157.51 KB
3.21 Threatened Endangered Species.pdf – 2.09 MB
3.22 Invasive Species.pdf – 27.27 KB
3.23 Relationship Between Local Short.pdf – 22.66 KB
3.24 Irreversible and Irretrievable.pdf – 14.91 KB
3.25 Cumulative Impacts.pdf – 54.77 MB
3.3 Farmlands-Timberlands.pdf – 24.55 MB
3.4 Community Impacts.pdf – 5.92 MB
3.5 Utilities-Emer Ser.pdf – 135.08 KB
3.6 Traffic-Pedestrian.pdf – 680.86 KB
3.7 Visual.pdf – 5.28 MB
3.8 Cultural Resources.pdf – 257.33 KB
3.9 Hydrology and Floodplain.pdf – 21.36 MB
Vol II Cover.pdf – 64.49 KB
App A CEQA Checklist.pdf – 46.36 KB
App B Final Section 4f Evaluation.pdf – 22.72 MB
App C Title VI.pdf – 169.10 KB
App D Summary of Relocation Benefit.pdf – 1.74 MB
App E Glossary of Technical Terms.pdf – 65.19 KB
App F ECR.pdf – 553.95 KB
App G List of Acronyms.pdf – 33.41 KB
App H List of Technical Studies.pdf – 22.01 KB
App I Supplemental Ch 2 Attachments.pdf – 112.68 MB
App K 2012 RTP 2015 FTIP.pdf – 1,003.16 KB
App L USFWS Letters.pdf – 138.12 KB
App M LEDPA.pdf – 50.31 MB
App N Regional Species of Concern and Coverage.pdf – 148.49 KB
App J Supplemental Ch 5 Attachments.pdf – 92.14 KB
Attachment J-1.pdf – 9.73 MB
Attachment J-2_1.pdf – 2.41 MB
Attachment J-2_10.pdf – 219.89 KB
Attachment J-2_11.pdf – 1.74 MB
Attachment J-2_12.pdf – 8.16 MB
Attachment J-2_13.pdf – 531.94 KB
Attachment J-2_14.pdf – 1.74 MB
Attachment J-2_2.pdf – 2.58 MB
Attachment J-2_3.pdf – 1.95 MB
Attachment J-2_4.pdf – 1.45 MB
Attachment J-2_5.pdf – 13.24 MB
Attachment J-2_6.pdf – 394.75 KB
Attachment J-2_7.pdf – 755.16 KB
Attachment J-2_8.pdf – 3.26 MB
Attachment J-2_9.pdf – 6.31 MB
Attachment J-3.pdf – 17.56 MB
Attachment J-4.pdf – 20.93 MB
Attachment J-5.pdf – 2.87 MB
Attachment J-6.pdf – 5.97 MB
Attachment J-7.pdf – 791.41 KB
Vol III Cover.pdf – 64.50 KB
App O Parcel Acquisitions.pdf – 342.94 MB
App P Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring.pdf – 17.19 MB
App Q References.pdf – 73.07 KB
App R Index.pdf – 108.43 KB
App S RTC.pdf – 105.52 MB
App T MSHCP.pdf – 47.66 MB
App U MOA.pdf – 46.78 MB
App V RTC.pdf – 8.22 MB
App W BO.pdf – 662.15 KB
Vol I Cover and Introduction
Volume I Master TOC
Executive Summary
1.0 Purpose and Need
2.0 Alternatives
3.0 Affected Environment
3.1 Land Use
3.2 Growth
3.3 Farmlands-Timberlands
3.4 Community Impacts
3.5 Utilities-Emer Ser
3.6 Traffic-Pedestrian
3.7 Visual
3.8 Cultural Resources
3.9 Hydrology and Floodplain
3.10 Water Quality Storm Runoff
3.11 Geology-Soils-Seismic
3.12 Paleontology
3.13 Haz Waste-Matls
3.14 Air Quality
3.15 Noise
3.16 Energy
3.17 Natural Communities
3.18 Wetlands
3.19 Plant Species
3.20 Animal Species
3.21 Threatened-Endangered Species
3.22 Invasive Species
3.23 Relationship
3.24 Irreversible and Irretrievable
3.25 Cumulative Impacts
Cover (70 KB)
Appendix A: CEQA Environmental Checklist (115 KB)
Appendix B: Revised Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation (13.5 MB)
Appendix C: Title IV Policy Statement (115 KB)
Appendix D: Summary of Relocation Benefits (530 KB)
Appendix E: Glossary of Technical Terms (65 KB)
Appendix F: Environmental Commitments Record (620 KB)
Appendix G: List of Acronyms (35 KB)
Appendix H: List of Technical Studies (25 KB)
Appendix I: Supplemental Chapter 2 Attachments (2 MB)
Appendix J: Supplemental Chapter 5 Attachments – part 1 of 2 (47 MB)
Appendix J: Supplemental Chapter 5 Attachments – part 2 of 2 (30 MB)
Appendix K: 2012 RTP and 2011 FTIP (Amendment 24) Project Listings (215 KB)
Appendix L: USFWS Letter (265 KB)
Appendix M: 404 (b)(1) Alternatives Analysis (4.5 MB)
Appendix N: Regional Species of Concern and Coverage under the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (140 KB)
Appendix O: Parcel Acquisitions (4.5 MB)
Appendix P: Conceptual Mitigation Plan (140 KB)
Appendix Q: References (95 KB)
Appendix R: Index (160 KB)
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Perris-South Metrolink Station, Perris
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Perris-South Metrolink Station, Perris
Final Design: January 2023 to summer 2024
Construction: Anticipated late 2024 to summer 2026
Investment: Estimated $25 million (total cost)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), in partnership with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink), Caltrans, and the City of Perris, is expanding the Perris-South Metrolink Station. This station serves as the end point for the 91/Perris Valley Line, north of Ethanac Road.
The project will add a second passenger loading platform at the station, along with canopies and other passenger amenities. To accommodate the new platform, 1,100 feet of new station track will be added to allow two passenger trains to board and deboard at the same time. This new track will also allow the station to remain operational if a train is out of service on one set of tracks.
The project also includes construction of a fourth track at the Perris-South layover maintenance facility. This will include building new track and installing a new switch for trains to change tracks. This will improve Metrolink service operations and efficiency by allowing more trains to be stored overnight.
Project design began in late January 2023 and is expected to take approximately 1.5 years.
Construction is anticipated to start in late 2024 and be completed in summer 2026.
Status: Under Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Riverside County Metrolink Stations
Construction: Various
Investment: Various
For questions related to these projects, email info@rctc.org
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) owns and operates the Metrolink stations in Riverside County. Many improvements are being made to the stations to ensure riders have a positive experience.
See below for more information about each of the projects:
This project will address the needs of Riverside County commuters. Benefits and features include:
Construction is expected to begin in fall 2022 and be completed by spring 2024.
This project will expand the Metrolink train layover facility at the Riverside-Downtown Station. The project will allow more trains to be housed at the station at the end of each night shift, which will allow for more efficient service.
Work began in March 2020 and was completed in May 2021.
This project proposes building an additional passenger loading platform and tracks to improve Metrolink service and extending the existing pedestrian bridge for added elevator and stair access.
Environmental studies and final design are under way and are expected to be completed by 2022.
This project is modernizing elevators at the Corona-North Main and Riverside-Downtown Stations by upgrading parts and installing new technology. The upgrades will allow the elevators to run more smoothly and with less down-time or needed repairs.
Upgrades to the Corona-North Main Station elevators were completed in April 2020. Upgrades to the Riverside-Downtown Station elevators are expected to be completed in June 2020.
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station
Complete Environmental: Late 2022
Complete Final Design and Right of Way: Late 2023
Construction: To follow after completion of Final Design and Right-of-Way phases
Investment: $65-80 million
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with the Federal Transit Administration and Metrolink, is conducting studies to support an Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Assessment for proposed improvements to the Riverside-Downtown Station.
RCTC and Metrolink are working to improve the transportation network in southern California. Increasing freight train service causes delays to Metrolink service at the Riverside-Downtown Station. Station improvements are needed to avoid conflicts with freight train traffic, reduce delays, and allow for future Metrolink service expansion. The purpose of the project is to expand platform capacity, and improve operations, efficiency, connectivity, and the passenger experience at the station.
The proposed project focuses on improvements primarily on the east side of the station and tracks. The improvements include adding a passenger loading platform and tracks and extending. the pedestrian overpass to access the new platform. Pedestrian access and parking improvements along Howard Avenue are also proposed as part of the project.
RCTC hosted two public hearings for residents to learn more about the proposed project and provide official public comments. A virtual public hearing was held December 15. An in-person public hearing was held December 16. Written public comments were accepted through February 18, 2022 using the following methods:
Email: stationproject@rctc.org
Online: https://bit.ly/RDSComment
U.S Mail: Mr. David Lewis, Capital Projects Manager
Riverside County Transportation Commission
Attn: Riverside-Downtown Station Improvements Project
4080 Lemon Street, 3rd Floor
Riverside, CA 92501
RCTC began the environmental process with the distribution and posting of the Notice of Preparation in January 2020 and a public scoping meeting on February 6, 2020. The team has prepared technical studies on the potential impacts of the proposed project improvements and released the Draft Environmental Impact Report in December 2021.
The Draft Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Assessment have been released to the public. The public comment period will be open for 60 days, and two public hearings will occur in late 2021. The public hearings will be held to ensure all participants have a voice in this process. A court reporter and Spanish speaking interpreters will help staff the public hearing.
The next major milestone will be the public review and comment period of the Draft Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Assessment, released in late 2021. Final design and right of way activities will take place after the environmental document is finalized. The anticipated completion of final design and right of way is late 2023, with construction to follow.
Dates subject to change.
In January 2020, RCTC posted the Notice of Preparation in the State Clearinghouse and The Press-Enterprise and La Prensa newspapers. A public scoping meeting was held at Lincoln High School in February 2020. The meeting was attended by community members and representatives of the City of Riverside, RCTC, and Metrolink.
RCTC met with multiple project stakeholders to provide information and updates. Presentations were made to the Eastside Neighborhood Forum (March 2020 and April 2021), Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, and the Transportation Now Riverside Chapter. Additionally, RCTC and the FTA conducted Section 106 consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office to evaluate potential impacts to historic and cultural resources. Additional public outreach to historic groups was also performed by the project team. RCTC provided another project update to the Eastside Neighborhood Forum in November 2021 before the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Assessment for public review.
In late 2021, RCTC released the Notice of Availability for the Draft Environmental Impact Report to the State Clearinghouse, The Press-Enterprise, and La Prensa. A 60-day public review and comment period will follow the release of this document. Two public hearings will be held during the public comment period. Once the public comment period is concluded, all comments will be addressed in the Final Environmental Document.
Executive Summary
CEQA
NEPA
Appendices
Notice of Availability
The Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for this project are now available for public review. To view these and all other supplemental documents and provide an official public comment, click here . The 60-day review period of these documents will begin December 3, 2021 and end February 18, 2022. These documents are also available for review in physical form at the following locations:
RCTC Office at 4080 Lemon Street, 3rd Floor, Riverside, CA 92501
City of Riverside – Third Floor/Planning at 3900 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92522
Cesar Chavez Community Center at 2060 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507
Public Scoping Meeting Summary
Public Scoping Meeting Exhibits
Community Presentations:
Status: Pre-Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Trails
Location: Western Riverside County
Construction: Phase 4 (between West Rincon Street and Butterfield Drive, east of Corona Municipal Airport) anticipated from 2021 to 2023. Other phases have not been scheduled for construction
Investment: Estimated $35 million for Phases 1-4, including $3 million for Phase 4
Project Status: Engineering and environmental studies are under way.
RCTC, in coordination with the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District (Riverside County Parks) and other project partners, is proposing the construction of a 12.8-mile section of the Santa Ana River Trail (SART). When completed, this section will provide a direct trail connection through Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.
The proposed 12.8-mile section in Prado Basin would promote pedestrian, equestrian, and cycling trail use with nature-viewing opportunities and provide a fully connected active transportation option for southern California. Work is planned to be completed in five phases.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: 60/215 Interchange
Construction: June 2011 – March 2014
Investment: $43 Million
Jobs Created: 774
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Interchanges
Location: 74/215 Interchange, Perris
Construction: July 2010 – March 2012
Investment: $29 Million
Jobs Created: 522
RCTC, in conjunction with project partners Caltrans, the City of Perris and the Western Riverside Council of Governments, reconstructed the Route 74/Interstate 215 Interchange Project in Perris. The new interchange was designed to improve traffic flow, access to downtown Perris and connections to northbound and southbound I-215. The centerpiece of the project was the replacement of the existing two-lane bridge over the freeway with an eight-lane bridge, with two through-lanes and two left-turn lanes in both directions.
The centerpiece of the project was the replacement of the existing two-lane bridge over the freeway with an eight-lane bridge, with two through-lanes and two left-turn lanes in both directions. Other improvements included:
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Corridor
Location: Riverside to Perris
Construction: October 2013 – June 2016
Investment: $248.3 Million
Jobs Created: 4,469
Service began in June 2016 on the 91/Perris Valley Line, the first new Metrolink extension to open since the Antelope Valley line in 1994. The 24-mile extension of Metrolink was designed to reduce traffic congestion on Interstate 215 and improve transit options for southwestern Riverside County residents, who have some of the longest commutes in southern California.
Construction began in October 2013. The project is located within the right of way of the existing San Jacinto Branch Line through Riverside, Moreno Valley and Perris. Work included:
Project benefits include:
Increased Safety – The 91/PVL upgraded 15 at-grade crossings with flashing warning devices, gates, raised center medians, striping, signs, and pavement markings. The project also added pedestrian crosswalks at two railroad crossings, upgraded and closed one crossing, and permanently closed two crossings.
Quiet Zones and Noise Reduction – The 91/PVL provided infrastructure that allowed the City of Riverside to establish “Quiet Zones” at Marlborough Avenue, Spruce Street, Blaine Street, and Mt. Vernon Avenue. In Quiet Zones, railroads no longer sound their train horns when approaching grade crossings, except during emergencies or to comply with railroad regulations. Noise studies were performed to analyze the impacts of the project to area residents. Sound walls of varying heights were built near residential neighborhoods in Riverside.
Improved Mobility – The 91/PVL parallels Interstate 215 and State Route 91 and provides commuters with a safe, convenient and traffic-free alternative to driving on the region’s heavily traveled freeways.
Enhanced Air Quality – Metrolink, combined with regional and local bus services, provides an environmentally-friendly and energy efficient alternative to driving alone.
New Jobs – By extending Metrolink to more of the region, local residents can take the train to jobs within Riverside County. During construction, the $248.3 million project created an estimated 4,400 direct and indirect jobs.
Station Development – Four new stations were built to serve the 91/PVL. The new stations include Riverside Hunter Park/UCR, Moreno Valley/March Field, Perris-Downtown and Perris-South.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Express Lanes
Location: Western Riverside County
Construction: 2018 – 2021
Investment: $472 Million
Jobs Created: 3,300
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans and the Federal Highway Administration, built 15 miles of tolled express lanes in the median of Interstate 15 between Route 60 in Jurupa Valley/Eastvale and Cajalco Road in Corona.
Status: Completed Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Southbound Interstate 15, Cajalco Road on-ramp to Weirick Road off-ramp
Construction: May 2022 to early fall 2022; lane opened July 2022
Investment: $5 million
The I-15 Interim Corridor Operations Project was the result of an agency task force led by staff from RCTC, Caltrans, the City of Corona, and the County of Riverside. The group began meeting in June 2021 to study alternatives and develop near-term improvements to help improve traffic operations. The CHP also provided input regarding safety and vehicle pull-over locations.
The project added a non-tolled lane to southbound I-15 between the Cajalco Road on-ramp and the Weirick Road off-ramp, a distance of just under one mile. To add the lane, crews strengthened the pavement of the outer and inner I-15 shoulders to handle traffic loads. Crews restriped the roadway to provide three 11-foot wide lanes, one 12-foot wide lane, a varying 3 to 8-foot wide outer shoulder, and a varying 2 to 5-foot wide inner shoulder. The new lane opened July 23, 2022.
Work began May 23, 2022, and the new lane opened on July 23, 2022. Closeout activities were completed in fall 2022.
RCTC completed engineering and environmental studies, as well as the project design, in early 2022. RCTC awarded a construction contract on March 9, 2022. Work began May 23, 2022, and the new lane opened on July 23, 2022. Closeout activities were completed in fall 2022.
For questions related to the Interstate 15 Interim Corridor Operations Project, please email info@rctc.org
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Interchanges
Location: Interstate 15 Railroad Canyon Road, Lake Elsinore
Construction: May 2020 to summer 2022
Investment: $41 million (construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans and the City of Lake Elsinore, upgraded the Interstate 15 Railroad Canyon Interchange in Lake Elsinore.
The project was built to address the needs of the area’s growing number of residents and recreational visitors. The project also was designed to improve traffic flow for people traveling to and from Canyon Lake. Benefits and features included:
Construction began in May 2020 and the new interchange opened in April 2022. Project closeout work continued through summer 2022.
Construction began in May 2020 and the new interchange opened in April 2022. Project closeout work continued through summer 2022.
For questions related to the I-15 Railroad Canyon Interchange Project, please email info@rctc.org.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Interstate 215 from the 60/91/215 Interchange in Riverside to Orange Show Road in San Bernardino
Construction: February 2013 – June 2015
Investment: $170 Million
Jobs Created: 3,060
Caltrans, in funding partnership with RCTC and other agencies, constructed one carpool lane in both directions on Interstate 215 from the 60/91/215 Interchange in Riverside to Orange Show Road in San Bernardino County.
The project closed an eight-mile gap in carpool lanes on Interstate 215 between Riverside and San Bernardino counties. This bi-county effort rebuilt the outside and inside freeway shoulders and restriped the lanes to allow for three general purpose lanes and one new carpool lane in both directions.
The project also rebuilt or widened bridges crossing the Union Pacific railroad tracks, Interstate 10, and the Santa Ana River.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Interstate 215 between Scott Road in Menifee and Nuevo Road in Perris
Construction: January 2013 – October 2015
Investment: $123.5 million
Jobs Created: 2,223
RCTC started construction in early 2013 to widen a 12.5-mile section of Interstate 215 between Scott Road in Menifee and Nuevo Road in Perris, and opened lanes in October 2015. One lane was added in both directions to provide three continuous northbound lanes and three continuous southbound lanes on I-215 between I-15 and State Route 60.
Where possible, the lanes were added within the existing freeway median. In other sections with a narrower median, lanes were added to the outer edge of the freeway. Using the existing median reduced the impact to homes and businesses.
Improvements to a number of structures were completed as part of this project, including:
In addition, the two existing freeway lanes in each direction were resurfaced, creating a smoother ride for motorists.
Noise studies were performed to analyze the impacts of the project to area residents. Sound walls were built along the west side of the freeway between McCall Boulevard and south of McLaughlin Road.
Status: Under Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Interchanges
Location: I-215 Placentia Avenue, Perris
Construction: August 2020 to fall 2022
Investment: $42 million (construction)
The I-215 Placentia Avenue Interchange in Perris is the first construction project of the Mid County Parkway, a new 16-mile transportation corridor between the San Jacinto and Perris valleys. The Mid County Parkway is designed to reduce travel times between these areas. Please see the Mid County Parkway Ramona Expressway page for details about this corridor.
Designed to meet the needs of a growing population, the Placentia interchange project provides a new way to enter and exit I-215. The new interchange is located between Ramona Expressway to the north and Nuevo Road to the south. It was designed to improve access, traffic flow, and air quality by adding on-ramps and off-ramps to Placentia Avenue, realigning East Frontage Road, widening the Placentia Avenue overcrossing, and adding lanes to Placentia Avenue between Harvill Avenue and Indian Avenue.
Construction began on August 24, 2020 and the interchange opened fall 2022.
Construction began August 24, 2020 and the interchange opened fall 2022.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Interstate 215 between Murrieta Hot Springs Road in Murrieta and Scott Road in Menifee
Construction: April 2011 – September 2012
Investment: $29 million
Jobs Created: 522
New lanes opened in September 2012 on a six-mile section of I-215 from Murrieta Hot Springs Road in Murrieta to Scott Road in Menifee. One lane and a shoulder were added within the existing freeway median, creating three northbound lanes and three southbound lanes.
This project also widened the Keller Road Undercrossing, added a median barrier, repaired existing pavement and adjusted freeway grading and drainage.
Status: Under Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Riverside County Metrolink Stations
Construction: Various
Investment: Various
For questions related to these projects, email info@rctc.org
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) owns and operates the Metrolink stations in Riverside County. Many improvements are being made to the stations to ensure riders have a positive experience.
See below for more information about each of the projects:
This project will address the needs of Riverside County commuters. Benefits and features include:
Construction is expected to begin in fall 2022 and be completed by spring 2024.
This project will expand the Metrolink train layover facility at the Riverside-Downtown Station. The project will allow more trains to be housed at the station at the end of each night shift, which will allow for more efficient service.
Work began in March 2020 and was completed in May 2021.
This project proposes building an additional passenger loading platform and tracks to improve Metrolink service and extending the existing pedestrian bridge for added elevator and stair access.
Environmental studies and final design are under way and are expected to be completed by 2022.
This project is modernizing elevators at the Corona-North Main and Riverside-Downtown Stations by upgrading parts and installing new technology. The upgrades will allow the elevators to run more smoothly and with less down-time or needed repairs.
Upgrades to the Corona-North Main Station elevators were completed in April 2020. Upgrades to the Riverside-Downtown Station elevators are expected to be completed in June 2020.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Rail Station Improvements
Location: Riverside – La Sierra Metrolink Station
Construction: April 2018 to January 2019
RCTC expanded the Riverside-La Sierra Metrolink Station at 10901 Indiana Avenue. The project added 442 parking spaces, six bus bays, and a signalized access/driveway onto Indiana Avenue. The expansion occurred on an adjacent 4.69-acre vacant lot owned by RCTC and includes Park & Ride facilities northeast of the station.
Construction began in April 2018 and will be complete in October 2018.
Status: Completed Construction
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: State Route 60 between Gilman Springs Road to 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail, unincorporated Riverside County
Construction: July 2019 to Summer 2022
Investment: $138.4 Million; $113 Million in Construction Costs
Jobs Created: 2,491
RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, widened a 4.5-mile section of Route 60 from Gilman Springs Road to 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail in Riverside County’s Badlands between Moreno Valley and Beaumont. The project was within mountainous terrain with a curving alignment and steep grades. The project was designed to improve safety and efficiency of travel between the Coachella Valley and western Riverside County. Click here to view project videos.
Project features included:
Project construction will occur from June 2019 to summer 2022. Please see the Construction Updates and the Shifting Gears newsletter below for project progress.
The $113 million construction investment is funded by a combination of state, federal and local sources, including Measure A, the voter-approved half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements in Riverside County.
Construction will take place from June 2019 to summer 2022. View the schedule and staging exhibits from open houses held in June 2019.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: State Route 74 between Calvert Avenue and California Avenue, Hemet
Construction: May 2014 – June 2015
Investment: $5.6 Million
Jobs Created: 101
This project widened the lanes, median and shoulders of the south side of State Route 74 between eastbound Calvert Avenue and California Avenue.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Express Lanes
Location: Route 91, Corona
Construction: July 2014 to 2017
Investment: $1.4 billion
Jobs Created: 16,200
RCTC, the project’s lead agency, in partnership with Caltrans and the Federal Highway Administration, began construction of this $1.4 billion project in 2014. The project extended the 91 Express Lanes from the Riverside County/Orange County Line to Interstate 15, providing the first tolled express lanes in Riverside County. This design-build project also added general purpose lanes, auxiliary lanes and an Express Lane Connector between eastbound 91 and southbound I-15 and between northbound I-15 and westbound 91. Improvements also were made to interchanges, ramps and local streets. The new lanes opened March 20, 2017.
The 91 Project was designed to save travel time, offer a choice between the new express lanes and general purpose lanes, provide a reliable commute, enhance safety through faster emergency response, improve access to businesses and homes, add jobs, boost connections to transit and trails, and improve air quality.
For information about the 91 Express Lanes and opening an account, please visit 91expresslanes.com.
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Westbound Route 91, Green River Road on-ramp to Route 241
Construction: From November 2020 to February 2022
Investment: Estimated $29 million for construction
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, in partnership with Caltrans, the Orange County Transportation Authority, the City of Corona and the Transportation Corridor Agencies, opened the new westbound 91 lane between Green River Road in Corona and the 241 Toll Road in Anaheim on January 6, 2022. This new lane was the centerpiece of the Route 91 Corridor Operations Project. RCTC led the project through construction.
The project added a new lane to westbound 91 for approximately two miles between the Green River Road on-ramp and the southbound Route 241 connector, next to the outer shoulder. The new lane is designed to help relieve westbound traffic congestion through this heavily traveled corridor, particularly for morning commuters.
RCTC, in conjunction with project partners, opened on the new lane on January 6, 2022.
Construction began in November 2020. The new lane opened January 6, 2022.
Week of March 7, 2022 – Revised
Week of February 14, 2022 – Revised
Week of January 17, 2022 – REVISED
Special Construction Update – January 6, 2022
Week of November 8, 2021 (Revised)
October 20, 2021, Narrow Lanes Special Construction Update
Week of April 19, 2021 Revised
Week of March 8, 2021 (Extended)
Week of February 22 and March 1, 2021
Full westbound freeway closure – January 15, 2021
For questions related to the 91 Corridor Operations Project, please email info@rctc.org
Status: Completed
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Route 91 north of Central Avenue in Riverside
Construction: Spring 2020 to October 2021
Investment: $8.8 million (construction)
The Riverside County Transportation Commission is building the Route 91 Pachappa Underpass in Riverside. The project will include construction of a retaining wall and removal of part of an overhead railroad bridge. Construction began in April 2020 and was completed in October 2021.
Construction contract was approved at the November 13, 2019 commission meeting. Work began in April 2020 and was completed in October 2021.
Construction will began in April 2020 and completed in October 2021.
This project includes work that was deleted from the Caltrans Route 91 High Occupancy Vehicle (Carpool Lane) Project. In December 2016, the Commission approved the removal of this work from that project and authorized this separate Pachappa Underpass Project. Most of the work consists of removing the Pachappa Underpass temporary bridge and its associated retaining walls and building a new retaining wall to support the final Union Pacific Railroad alignment.
Status: Long-Term
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: SR-60 and I-10 Interchange
Construction: Long Range
RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, proposes to upgrade the interchange between Interstate 10 and Route 60 in the Beaumont area. The project is in the expenditure plan for Measure A, the voter-approved half-cent sales tax measure for transportation improvements in Riverside County. Measure A will fund a portion of the project. However, the expenditure plan assumed 50 percent of all project expenses would be paid for with federal and state transportation funding sources. These sources are currently funded far below historical levels; therefore, until additional funding is available, RCTC cannot proceed with environmental reviews, design, right-of-way acquisition, or construction of the project.
Status: Long Term
Location: Coachella Valley
Type of Project: Rail Corridor
Location: Counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside, with proposed future connection to Amtrak’s Tucson-Phoenix-Los Angeles corridor
Type of Project: Passenger Rail
Investment: Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR approximately $7 million. Have secured $23 million in funding toward $60 million Tier 2 EIS/EIR cost. Future design and construction costs to be determined.
The Riverside County Transportation Commission certified the Final Tier 1/Program-Level Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report in July 2022 for proposed daily intercity passenger rail service between Los Angeles and the Coachella Valley. In coordination with the Federal Railroad Administration and the California Department of Transportation, RCTC is proposing this service as an alternate mode of east-west travel across southern California, connecting the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside.
The service would provide game-changing access to jobs and education centers while reducing vehicle miles traveled and combating climate change and air pollution. In addition, the rail service would significantly expand economic opportunities by opening travel to restaurants, resorts, music festivals, sports facilities, and commercial and retail centers. The nine stations also offer a host of transit-oriented development opportunities. The proposed service would extend approximately 144 miles between Los Angeles and the Coachella Valley with stops in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties, including up to six stations on the east end. CV Rail would comprise a substantial segment of Amtrak’s Tucson-Los Angeles corridor. The Tucson-Phoenix-Los Angeles corridor would connect passengers to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight, Pacific Surfliner, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle routes, broadening travel opportunities nationwide.
With the certification of the Final Tier 1/Program-Level EIS/EIR, RCTC and Caltrans are actively seeking funding for the Tier 2/Project-Level environmental analysis, which will study specific stations and detailed engineering.
The Commission certified the Final Tier 1 Program-Level Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report on July 13, 2022. This followed the release of the report on June 9, 2022 and public review of the the Draft Tier 1/Program-Level EIS/EIR from May 21 to July 6, 2021.
Station locations, funding, and the timing for the start of construction and service will be identified during the future Tier 2 Project-Level EIS/EIR. RCTC and Caltrans are pursuing funding for this Tier 2 work.
Notice of Availability & Public Hearing Notice
Aviso de disponibilidad y anuncio de reunión pública
Combined FINAL TIER 1/PROGRAM EIS/EIR AND RECORD OF DECISION
Appendix A – Draft Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR
Appendix B – Public Outreach Summary Report
Appendix C – Comments Received on Draft Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR
Appendix D – Response to Comments on the Draft Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR
Appendix E – CEQA Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
RCTC released the draft Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR for public review on May 21, 2021. The public review and comment period was open until July 6, 2021. During the public comment period, RCTC held two public hearings to provide the public an opportunity to weigh in on the document contents. Presentations and video from the three public hearings are available below:
Final Tier 1/Program Level EIS/EIR Public Hearing: Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Video
Public Hearing #1: Tuesday, June 22, 2021
English Presentation
Spanish Presentation
Video
Video en español
Public Hearing #2: Saturday, June 26, 2021
English Presentation
Spanish Presentation
Video
Video en español
Fact Sheet (Spanish)
Resolution Supporting Rail Service
Executive Summary
Final Alternatives Analysis
Final Alternatives Appendices
Public Meeting Presentation
Public Meetings Exhibits
Status: Long-Term
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: I-10 from San Bernardino County Line to SR-60
Construction: Long Range
Status: Long-Term
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Interstate 15 between Route 74 and the Riverside County/San Diego County Line.
Construction: Long Range
RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, proposes to add lanes to Interstate 15 between Route 74 and the Riverside County/San Diego County Line. The project is in the expenditure plan for Measure A, the voter-approved half-cent sales tax measure for transportation improvements in Riverside County. Measure A will fund a portion of the project. However, the expenditure plan assumed 50 percent of all project expenses would be paid for with federal and state transportation funding sources. These sources are currently funded far below historical levels; therefore, until additional funding is available, RCTC cannot proceed with environmental reviews, design, right-of-way acquisition, or construction of the project.
Status: Long-Term
Location: Western Riverside County
Type of Project: Highways
Location: Interstate 215 between Nuevo Road in Perris to State Route 60 in Riverside
Construction: Long Range
