HDR was selected by the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) to lead the next major step in bringing daily intercity passenger rail service between Los Angeles and the Coachella Valley.

The firm will lead the Tier 2 environmental review program for the Coachella Valley Rail Corridor, including the conceptual and preliminary engineering needed to develop project-level environmental clearance.

The milestone moves the region closer to a transformative vision that connects communities, expands mobility options, and strengthens economic opportunity with safe, sustainable, and reliable rail service, said HDR officials.

The service would introduce multiple daily round-trip buses between Los Angeles Union Station and Coachella, supported by nine stations, a layover facility, and infrastructure improvements along a 144-mile corridor.

“This project has a great deal of technical complexity, but it’s really about creating lasting value for the communities we serve,” said HDR Project Manager Rob Klovsky. “Our team is committed to delivering a thoughtful, collaborative process that reflects local priorities while meeting high standards for environmental stewardship and engineering excellence.”

HDR’s Scope

HDR’s interdisciplinary team brings decades of experience along this corridor, including leadership on the Service Development Plan and Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement. That continuity positions the firm to navigate the complexities of this next phase efficiently and effectively, said HDR.

Work on this phase of the project begins in early 2026 with a station location study and conceptual engineering to further define the project footprint and support an update to the Service Development Plan. HDR will lead technical analyses and community engagement to shape the project, working closely with RCTC, Class I railroads, tribal governments, and local communities.

After the Service Development Plan update receives federal approval, the project team will complete the detailed environmental technical studies and prepare and circulate the required documents under the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act.

“HDR’s holistic and proactive approach anticipates scope, cost, and schedule challenges that can impact transformative projects like this one,” said HDR Global Transit Director Matt Tucker. “We’re excited to partner with RCTC to advance their vision for better mobility and economic opportunities along the Coachella Valley Rail Corridor.”