More Train Service Could Be On Track For the 2028 Olympics

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - Planning is underway to add more train service on the Central Coast and beyond for the upcoming 2028 Olympics.

The work is underway now through several agencies including the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG). It has sent support to decision makers and the staff says it stands ready to help with community awareness as the games get closer.

A test came during the World Cup recently. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner added special late-night northbound services to Santa Barbara and reports good success from riders using the train to get to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

There has also been an increase in the daily trips serving Santa Barbara and Goleta.

The 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games, will likely mean more train service from Los Angeles to the San Francisco Bay Area through Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. Work is also underway for a new train station stop in King City.

SBCAG plans to work with regional partners to prepare for 15 to 20-million visitors during the Olympics and address coastal rail corridor demands, reservations and reliability.

L.A. hosts the Olympic Games from July 14 to July 30, 2028, and then the Paralympic Games from Aug. 15 to Aug. 27. 

The train service will also be a key component for those visiting the Central Coast and is expected to be part of the economic boost for the area.

Also coordinating with the future plan is the San Luis Obispo County Organization of Governments. (SLOCOG).

(More details, photos and video will be added here later today.)

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