Granite Construction's $24M Upgrade Will Transform Southern California Rail Service

Granite Construction Takes Bold Steps to Expand Southern California Rail

In an ambitious move to enhance the Metrolink rail system in Southern California, Granite Construction has secured a crucial $24 million contract to upgrade the Perris South Metrolink Station. Located in Riverside County, this project aims to transform the currently single-track terminus into a bustling hub capable of supporting dual train services. With the area's population increasingly relying on public transportation, this upgrade anticipates and responds to rising commuter demands.

Addressing Commuter Needs - A Growing Demand for Efficiency

The need for reliable and efficient public transit options has never been greater. The Perris Valley Line, which connects Perris to Downtown Riverside, was established to relieve traffic on the heavily congested Interstate 215, allowing Southwestern Riverside County residents, who often face some of the longest commutes in Southern California, to travel more easily to jobs in Los Angeles. Notably, ridership on this line surged by 22% year-over-year, making it one of the system's fastest-growing routes. The enhancements at the Perris South station are essential not only for accommodating this surge but also for improving overall service reliability.

Improving Infrastructure: Key Features of the Upgrade

Granite's project will introduce several significant upgrades that will allow the Perris South station to operate as a high-capacity hub. Key features include:

• A second passenger boarding platform and an extension of the existing platform to accommodate longer trains, enabling more efficient loading and unloading.
• 1,100 feet of new track to allow two trains to operate simultaneously and provide flexibility even when one train is out of service.
• A new at-grade crossing with active warning signals for secure pedestrian access.
• Enhanced passenger amenities, including electronic display boards and upgraded canopies for better protection and accessibility.

These changes not only modernize the station but also significantly improve passenger safety and operational efficiency.

Funding and Future Growth: A Model for Local Investments

The project is financially supported by a combination of local and state sources, including California’s Measure A sales tax and a $25 million grant from the state Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program. This funding strategy highlights the importance of collaborative financing in public infrastructure projects, particularly in a region where commuting is such a necessity.

Granite’s commitment to expanding its operations within the Inland Empire aligns with this project, showcasing the company’s focus not just on construction but also on fostering community growth and mobility solutions. Bill Moore, Granite’s Vice President of Regional Operations, emphasizes the importance of Granite’s established collaboration with the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and Metrolink, which enhances their ability to meet these critical local needs.

Enhanced Community Connections: The Impact Beyond Rail

This project signifies more than just enhancements to train services. It embodies a shift toward sustainable transit solutions that could ease freeway congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and cater to the growing demand for commuter rail options. As more people opt for public transportation over driving, upgrading rail infrastructure becomes paramount in promoting a cleaner, more efficient urban landscape.

Looking Ahead: The Broader Implications for Rail Infrastructure

As construction on the Perris South station begins early next year, with an expected completion date in 2028, it sets an example of how infrastructure projects can be aligned with sustainable growth predictions. As Southern California continues to evolve, regional partnerships like this one will be key in shaping effective and resilient public transport solutions for the future.

The Perris South upgrade not only enhances local transit options but also creates job opportunities and propels economic growth in Riverside County. It’s a model that could inspire other regions facing similar challenges with traffic congestion and public transport inefficiencies.

So, as we await the construction phase, the focus remains on how this upgrade will ultimately transform the commuting experience for thousands of residents in the area, paving the way for a greener, more connected Southern California.