Title
Adopt a Resolution in support of the Transportation Agency for Monterey County’s (TAMC) efforts to help bring a pilot rail service connecting Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area for the Summer 2028 Olympics.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve a Resolution in support of the Transportation Agency for Monterey County’s (TAMC’s) effort to help bring a pilot rail service connecting Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area for the Summer 2028 Olympics.
SUMMARY:
TAMC adopted Resolution 2026-07 on June 24, 2026, formally supporting the proposed pilot rail service between San Luis Obispo and San Jose. This pilot would use existing track to close the only gap in state supported passenger rail between the Capitol Corridor and the Pacific Surfliner, giving Central Coast residents and Olympic visitors a seamless, one seat rail option between Los Angeles and the Bay Area.
The resolution highlights that current rail infrastructure can accommodate additional service if equipment and crews are made available. It also notes that the Coast Rail Coordinating Council-of which TAMC is a member-is identifying required planning, capital, and operating funds. TAMC is coordinating closely with the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG), which is leading development of the service proposal. Together, TAMC, SLOCOG, and the state are working on the operating plan necessary to advance funding discussions and negotiations with rail operators.
DISCUSSION:
TAMC does not yet have specific milestones or funding deadlines, as the service proposal is still under development. State support for the Capitol Corridor and LOSSAN Corridor Annual Business Plans-which restored both services to pre-COVID levels-extends only through June 2027. TAMC’s resolution calls for fully funding both plans beyond that date to maintain current service and enable the Central Coast expansion needed for the pilot. Continued funding is also essential fo...
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