CARLSBAD — Construction crews started pile-driving work on Monday to build a second set of railroad tracks across Batiquitos Lagoon, launching a critical phase in the multi-year North Coast Corridor Program.
The $166 million Batiquitos Lagoon Double Track project, part of the broader Build NCC, will enable northbound and southbound trains to pass at the same time and for passenger trains to pass slower freight trains on the second track.
The project will also replace a 1940s wooden trestle bridge with a modern concrete, double-track bridge spanning the lagoon between Carlsbad and Encinitas. Once complete, the bridge will improve tidal and flood flows due to wider channels, creating a more robust environment for local wildlife.
According to SANDAG, the Batiquitos Lagoon Double Track Project is one piece of a broader initiative to double-track the entire Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) rail corridor within San Diego County. By creating additional track capacity, the agency hopes to enhance train reliability and reduce delays along this crucial transportation route.
Construction hours for the initial pile-driving work will typically occur between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend work. SANDAG advises nearby residents and businesses to anticipate intermittent noise from equipment and mandatory safety alarms during these hours, though crews will work to minimize disruptions.
Additionally, residents can expect to see construction vehicles entering and exiting the area at access points on Avenida Encinas and Ponto Drive in Carlsbad and La Costa Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard in Encinitas. Periodic lane closures may occur, with detour signs and flaggers helping direct traffic through work zones.
As an added safety measure, train horns will sound near active construction zones, per federal guidelines, to warn workers of approaching trains.
The Build NCC program, a partnership among SANDAG, Caltrans, and the U.S. Department of Transportation, began in 2017 and includes several regional enhancements. Along with double-tracking efforts, the program is extending Carpool/HOV lanes on Interstate 5, constructing pedestrian and bike trails, and restoring the San Elijo Lagoon.
Funding for Build NCC includes $195 million from Senate Bill 1 and $322 million from TransNet, a half-cent sales tax for transportation projects approved by San Diego County voters.
The entire double-track bridge construction at Batiquitos Lagoon is expected to be completed by 2028.
