North San Diego County Transit District (NCTD) awarded the $224 million contract to a joint venture team led by Flatiron to convert 22-miles of existing active freight rail to a commuter line. The commuter line has 15 stations and runs east/west along the Highway 78 corridor between Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, and Escondido, California.

Construction included a new ballasted track with new ties, adjusted alignment for faster travel speeds, new at-grade crossings, double track for passing commuter trains, signaling systems, bridge and culvert structures, 15 new passenger station platforms, communication and controls systems, retaining walls, and landscaping.

A total of 455 trains run each week on this 22-mile route with an average of 8,300 weekday ridership. According to the NCTD, the new rail line offers alternative transportation to one of the region’s most heavily traveled corridors and provides additional travel freedom to the area’s residents. Reaching speeds of 50 mph, the Sprinter reduces traffic and pollution in North San Diego County.