The SAN diego at-grade crossing elimination study (SD-aces) will analyze grade separation opportunities and potential configurations at eleven at-grade rail crossings between and including taylor…

The Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration awarded the San Diego Association of Governments $1.371 million on February 18, 2026, under the Railroad Crossing Elimination program (CFDA 20.327) to conduct conceptual planning and preliminary engineering feasibility analysis of grade separation opportunities at eleven at-grade rail crossings between Taylor Street in Old Town San Diego and Ash Street in Downtown San Diego.

The recipient will determine potential intersection and rail station consolidation options, identify community reconnection opportunities given Interstate 5's parallel alignment with the rail corridor, and recommend improvements to individual crossings or groups of crossings that enhance rail operational safety and efficiency while supporting safer street transportation networks. The study will benefit residents, businesses, and travelers through improved pedestrian and vehicular circulation and safer access to destinations.

Performance runs through September 30, 2028, with work performed in California. No sub-recipients are involved; the San Diego Association of Governments, doing business as the Regional Transportation Commission, will execute all activities directly as the metropolitan planning organization recipient.

Activities

Carry out conceptual planning and preliminary engineering feasibility of long-term rail grade separation treatments for eleven at-grade rail crossings between the old town and downtown SAN diego communities.- determine potential intersection consolidation options and/or rail station relocation and consolidation options. - determine potential community reconnection opportunities given location of interstate 5 parallel to rail corridor.

Expected outcomes

Recommend improvements for individual crossings or groups of crossings that will provide enhanced rail operational safety and efficiency as well as a safer street transportation network.

Intended beneficiaries

Residents businesses and travelers through the area who will experience safer and more convenient access to destinations and better pedestrian and vehicular circulation.