In November 2005, the Commission completed a Commuter Rail Feasibility Study to evaluate the potential of future rail lines in Riverside County. A subsequent I-15 Commuter Rail Feasibility Study was completed in 2008. The recommendation from the study included further evaluation of routes to San Jacinto/Hemet and Murrieta/Temecula.

Of interest to residents in the Coachella Valley are plans to bring intercity rail service to the area. While there is limited Amtrak service to Palm Springs, the Commission, in partnership with Coachella Valley representatives, seeks to expand the level of service to the Valley.

RCTC is participating in statewide planning for a high speed rail system by the California High Speed Rail Authority. The state’s plan envisions a 700-mile network linking the Bay Area and Southern California with possible stops in Corona or Riverside and Murrieta/Temecula linking to San Diego County.