RIVERSIDE – (INT) - Daily passenger rail service into the Coachella Valley is a step nearer reality.

The Riverside County Transportation Commission approved Thursday (January 29th) an $80 million allocation to begin the next phase of environmental studies.

Dubbed CV Rail, the project will connect Riverside County — particularly the San Gorgonio Pass and Coachella Valley — with the rest of Southern California.

CV Rail offering residents, visitors, and commuters better choices and smart alternatives to traveling solely by automobile,” said the RCTC’s Raymond Gregory. “While there is still work ahead, today’s decision brings us one important step closer to construction.”

Story Date: January 30, 2026