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Caltrain was joined by federal, state, local officials, transportation, business and labor leaders to celebrate the inaugural electric train ride.
Today, Caltrain debuted its cutting-edge electric fleet, hosting a VIP tour where participants boarded the trains for its historic inaugural service. After nearly a decade of construction, these new trains signify a landmark shift towards a faster, more frequent and environmentally friendly public transportation network along the San Francisco Peninsula.
The event included a 30-minute round-trip experience, starting in San Francisco with the opportunity to engage with federal, state, local elected officials as well as transportation, business, labor and community leaders. Sunday, August 11, the electric trains will run their first regular service. Additional electric trains will be introduced every week until the launch of the new schedule and full electrified service between San Francisco and San Jose on Saturday, September 21.
The new high-performance electric trains offer a better experience for Caltrain riders while providing faster and more frequent service. Express service will allow commuters to travel between San Francisco and San Jose in under an hour. The new trains will also increase service by 20% because they can accelerate and decelerate much faster than diesel trains. This provides more robust and flexible access to cities throughout the rail system, with 16 stations seeing trains every 15-20 minutes at peak hours and all stations receiving service every 30 minutes on the weekend compared to hourly service today. Additionally, electrified service will advance equity along the corridor by reducing noise and air pollution while increasing access and service for equity priority communities by 26%.
Electrification will help meet ambitious regional and state climate action goals by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality and relieving traffic congestion. By transitioning from diesel to electric trains, carbon dioxide emissions will be cut by 250,000 metric tons annually - equivalent to removing 55,000 cars from the road each year. The Electrification Project not only decreases emissions and noise pollution in priority equity communities, but also provides better access and more robust and flexible service for everyone.
Additionally, the new vehicles offer enhanced amenities, including customer-facing Wi-Fi, new digital onboard displays, power outlets at each forward-facing seat, energy-efficient lighting, an improved climate control system, baby-changing tables in the bathroom, security cameras, and expanded storage under the cantilevered seats. They will also generate less noise than their diesel equivalent, making the trip more enjoyable both for riders and residents that live near Caltrain tracks.
The project has created 33,000 jobs in 36 states, fueling economic growth and innovation within the local communities and nationwide. The collaborative effort to manufacture the electric trains and infrastructure underscores a commitment to sustainability and job creation.
Caltrain is the oldest continuously operated railroad in the West, starting steam train passenger service 160 years ago when Abraham Lincoln served as President. After 70 years of diesel trains, the Caltrain Electrification Project, with substantial federal and State investment, will introduce the new era of electrified service on the corridor.
Below are quotes from strong supporters of the Caltrain Electrification Project:
“The future of California’s rail systems will be powered by clean, renewable energy, and as the Biden-Harris Administration makes the biggest investment in public transit in U.S. history, we were proud to help fund the transformative Caltrain electrification project,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Converting the 51-mile-long rail system from diesel to electric will not only improve service for riders and air quality all along the route, it will also set a standard for other rail systems to follow as we work to reduce carbon pollution across the country.”
“Safe, affordable and accessible public transit is key to San Francisco’s economic success and to saving the planet from the climate crisis,” said Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. “Caltrain electrification means shorter commutes, cleaner air and good-paying jobs in the Bay Area and beyond. It was my great pleasure to join so many leaders for the first ride on Caltrain’s new electric fleet.”
“High-speed rail linked to an electrified Caltrain will not just get Californians where they’re going faster, it’s connecting communities and driving economic growth,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “The completed Caltrain project is an integral part of high-speed rail and the story California is telling about clean transportation. And Californians are already seeing the results for themselves as we electrify Caltrain, finish structures, lay track, design and build stations, and buy trains. We’re making rail real in California.”
“The electrification of our railroad has been a goal for decades, and it has taken a tremendous effort to make it happen,” said Caltrain Board Chair Dev Davis. “I am delighted for the public to finally see the future of Caltrain for themselves, and I invite everyone to get on board and enjoy the next generation of public transit.”
“Today marks a historic milestone with the unveiling of California’s first electrified commuter rail system,” said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla. “Caltrain’s Peninsula Corridor Electrification project will not only reduce emissions and air pollution in neighboring communities, but it will also deliver more reliable transportation for commuters in the Bay Area. I will continue working to bring more resources to modernize our transportation infrastructure to grow our economy and improve travel across the state.”
“Today is the day we’ve dreamed about and worked so hard to make a reality ….. a 21st century electrified Caltrain that will travel faster, cleaner and quieter for the people of our region,” said Congressmember Anna Eshoo. “I’m so proud to have envisioned the plan and secured over a billion dollars. Now it’s all aboard!”
“The dream of Caltrain electrification has become a reality and I am thrilled this momentous accomplishment will benefit our environment, our economy and commuters across our region,” said Congressmember Kevin Mullin. “This new state-of-the-art passenger rail service sets the bar for sustainable transportation in California and the nation. The success of this project is thanks to an incredible amount of steadfast work and partnerships across multiple sectors. The future of our public transit system is here, and I can’t wait to hop aboard a new electric Caltrain!”
"As we face the all-too-real effects of climate change, it is more important than ever to reduce carbon emissions as we keep our communities connected. The Caltrain Electrification project will help sustainably modernize our rail system, providing travelers with newer and faster transit options between San Jose and San Francisco. I am excited to see the new electric trains on the tracks," said Congressmember Zoe Lofgren.
“Caltrain connects our Bay Area communities and is an integral part of the daily lives of my constituents in South San Jose,” said Congressmember Jimmy Panetta. “The federal government’s significant investment in modernizing our nation’s infrastructure is taking an important step forward with the phase-in of Caltrain’s new all-electric fleet. I look forward to seeing Caltrain deploy cleaner, quieter, and more efficient trains as we work together to both reduce commute times and our overall carbon output.”
“The Caltrain Electrification Project will reduce emissions, make our air cleaner, reduce traffic, and provide faster and more reliable service for our communities. I look forward to seeing the trains begin service this fall. I want to thank Caltrain and our leaders at the federal and local level for their commitment to improving public transportation in the Bay Area while tackling the climate crisis,” said Congressmember Ro Khanna.
“Today marks the beginning of a cleaner, greener, and more connected Bay Area, led by an electrified Caltrain that will improve our air quality and combat climate change, providing real benefits to everyone who calls this region home,” said State Senator Josh Becker. “Congratulations to Caltrain for this momentous achievement”
“An electrified Caltrain is a huge win for the South Bay, the environment, and anyone who travels along the San Francisco Peninsula,” said State Senator Dave Cortese. I am excited for my first ride on the future of public transit and cannot wait for everyone to have an opportunity to experience it for themselves.”
“Congratulations to Caltrain for their dedicated efforts in replacing their current diesel trains with a fully electric fleet. Modernizing our public transit through electrification is a significant step towards achieving our climate goals” said State Senator John Laird. “By reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency, these electric trains will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation network for the region.”
“What Caltrain has done with its electrification project is transformative,” said State Senator Aisha Wahab. “These types of climate-friendly modernizations put us closer to our climate goals, while improving service to riders.
“During my years as Assembly Budget Chair, I helped prioritize California’s investments. When these visions become reality, I always marvel at the impact they have on people’s lives. Today is no different. By leveraging state funds with federal dollars, we bring CalTrain into the modern transportation era that benefits the environment and commuters. The electrification of this transit system is truly transformational for the region,” said Assemblymember Phil Ting.
“Today marks a momentous milestone for an electrified rail service that will serve our region for decades to come,” said Assemblymember Marc Berman. “The quieter, cleaner, and faster trains will advance quality of life on the Peninsula. As we approach the light at the end of the tunnel, I congratulate Caltrain for their decades of hard work to get to today, and invite everyone who lives and works along the Peninsula to come out and see the future of Caltrain for themselves.”
“Our cities were built on the railroad. Our downtowns flow from our stations. Caltrain is the life-giving artery running through the Peninsula and electrification represents a renewal of its beating heart,” said Assemblymember Diane Papan. “This is truly a day to celebrate.”
"This milestone in the Caltrain electrification project is a testament to our commitment to creating a greener, more efficient transportation network in the greater Bay Area. Having been involved in this project from its early stages, I am both excited and deeply proud of this accomplishment," said Assemblymember Ash Kalra. "The inaugural ride reflects our collective vision for a sustainable future, where innovative transit solutions contribute to the well-being of our communities and the environment."
“Caltrain’s inaugural electric train ride is a major milestone for the Bay Area’s transit system,” said Assemblymember Alex Lee. “The Electrification Project brings faster, greener and more reliable train service for residents of my district, modernizing Caltrain’s fleet from diesel to electric. The electric fleet will benefit Californians for generations to come, advancing the state’s climate goals through reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Congratulations to Caltrain for this big achievement.”
“Caltrain’s new electric trains have so many benefits—they are better for the environment, quieter, and faster,” said San Francisco Mayor London Breed. “This is an important and necessary step to bringing Caltrain to the Portal in the heart of Downtown San Francisco. I am thrilled that passengers from San Francisco all the way down the Peninsula to Gilroy will now be able to enjoy these impressive new trains. ”
“If we’re going to meet our climate goals and maintain our economic competitiveness, we need sustainable transportation options with greater capacity and convenience— and Caltrain is showing the nation how it’s done,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. “Silicon Valley’s commuters will get a reminder each day that America can still achieve great things — greener, faster, and more frequent transit that will serve generations to come.”
“San Mateo County is about to enjoy world class train service like it’s never seen before,” said San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President Warren Slocum. “The new trains are cleaner, quieter, and faster than ever before, and invite everyone to get on board and experience the future of public transit for yourself.”
“The positive environmental impact of this achievement will reach beyond those who ride the electric train to and from Santa Clara County,” said Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors President Supervisor Susan Ellenberg. “This is a watershed moment I believe will inspire greater use of our public transit system, better connect our communities and stimulate further innovation and environmentally responsible transit."
“This project is a physical manifestation of a forward-thinking, bold vision for cutting- edge, ‘green’ train technology,” said U.S. Federal Transit Administration Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool. “We congratulate the Joint Powers Board, Caltrain and all of the state and local leaders who supported this first-in-a-generation electric powered train that creates good-paying jobs, mitigates climate change and improves the ridership experience.
“The Federal Railroad Administration joins Secretary Buttigieg and others from the U.S. Department of Transportation in expressing our excitement about the Caltrain electrification project, which will reduce pollution and make rail even more environmentally friendly for future generations,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “This project is a win for riders already utilizing commuter service and lays the groundwork for future high-speed rail service between San José and San Francisco and further innovation across the state.”
"The electrification of Caltrain is a significant moment in the legacy of American rail,” said California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin. “This project will bring world class zero-emission rail service to generations of people, and I am honored that California is again leading the way with cleaner mobility in this historic moment."
“The launch of Caltrain’s new electric train is a significant milestone in our collective efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality along the Peninsula,” said California Air Resource Board of Directors Chair Davina Hurt. “This project reflects the Air District’s commitment to creating cleaner, healthier communities by investing in innovative transportation solutions that improve air quality and enhance the well-being of our residents.”
“Electrification of the Caltrain corridor has long been one of the Bay Area’s top transportation priorities,” said Metropolitan Transportation Commission Chair Alfredo Pedroza. “MTC is proud to be a major funding partner in the electrification project and excited to be part of a whole new chapter in the history of Bay Area transit. Caltrain’s new trains illustrate the better experience that all Bay Area transit agencies are working on to make transit a more attractive and convenient way to get around the Bay Area every day.”
“SamTrans is a committed partner to Caltrain, serving stations throughout San Mateo County in order to help our riders get where they need to go,” said SamTrans Board Chair Marina Fraser. “We congratulate Caltrain for this monumental achievement in public transportation as we work towards our own goal of a zero emissions fleet.”
“The electrification of Caltrain is a worthy project the TA has been proud to support,” said San Mateo County Transportation Authority Board Chair Carlos Romero. “The new service will benefit not only riders, but everyone who travels within and through San Mateo County. We look forward to enjoying the benefits of this project for decades to come.”
“Congratulations to everyone who helped deliver this transformational project,” said Rafael Mandelman, Chair of the San Francisco County Transportation Authority. “The Transportation Authority is proud to have helped fund over $40M in sales tax and other funds for the Caltrain Modernization Program which will enable faster service to more communities along the corridor, while helping San Francisco and the Bay Area reach critical emissions reduction and economic recovery goals.”
"I am thrilled with the launch of Caltrain's electrified train,” said VTA Board Chair Cindy Chavez. “This project is the result of a collaborative effort aimed at reducing our carbon footprint while enhancing the overall commuting experience for riders. I look forward to seeing the positive impact the new trains will have on our environment and on the daily lives of commuters."
“160 years ago, the first trains traveled from San Jose to San Francisco, laying the foundation for our region to become the economic powerhouse it is today,” said San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board Chair Amanda Eaken. “I believe this moment will be similarly historic, fueling generations of growth while improving our environment and quality of life.”
“With the landmark completion of this magnificent project, we now have a clean, world-class commuter rail system serving the world’s greatest tech and innovation corridor,” said Jim Wunderman, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council. “Starting in 2014 when we first called on this important project to be undertaken, the Bay Area Council has been proud to help lead the charge in securing the funding and approvals needed to electrify and modernize Caltrain. This day wouldn’t be possible without the stalwart leadership of Rep. Anna Eshoo and so many other state, local and regional partners, including the Silicon Valley Leadership Group and SPUR, who have worked tirelessly to succeed in making this happen despite many difficult challenges and obstacles. This is a triumph for our region.”
“The electrification of Caltrain has always been a team effort,” said SAMCEDA President & CEO Rosanne Foust. “To imagine it, to fund it, to build it. And now, to celebrate it, and the exciting future of clean, fast, essential public transit.”
“Electrifying Caltrain commuter rail service couldn’t happen at a better time,” said California Transportation Commission Chair Carl Guardino. “It’s faster, cleaner, quieter and — absolutely cooler.”
This is a thrilling milestone that Caltrain riders and transit supporters have anticipated for years,” said Project Director and Co-Founder of Friends of Caltrain Adina Levin. “So many people will enjoy faster, more frequent service to get to jobs, school, ballgames and fun! This helps Caltrain evolve to be a world-class service, part of a well-connected transit network serving a diversity of riders and trips.
"The new electric trains symbolize the dedication and expertise of the workers who built this critical infrastructure project,” said Santa Clara & San Benito Counties Building & Construction Trades Council Executive Director David Bini. “I am proud of the efforts made by so many to modernize this great railroad, and all of us are better off thanks to their hard work and professionalism."
“Caltrain starting electric passenger service is a leap forward in modernizing California’s rail system, placing our state in the forefront of the country’s rail revolution,” said California High-Speed Rail Authority Chief Executive Officer Brian Kelly. “It lays down critical high-speed rail infrastructure in the Bay Area. As a funding partner, the Authority is thrilled to continue its work in connecting Silicon Valley to the Central Valley and open economic opportunities throughout the state.”
"We're thrilled to celebrate this historic milestone with Caltrain as they operate their first passenger train on this innovative commuter rail system,” said Mark Konchar, Balfour Beatty US Civils President & Managing Director of US Rail Operations. “Our teammates’ and industry partners’ dedication to constructing the project’s Overhead Contact System and rail infrastructure has been paramount in delivering the corridor’s groundbreaking technology, converting diesel to electric power, setting a new standard for sustainable public transit. We're honored to have contributed to the Caltrain Electrification project that will significantly enhance regional mobility and reduce environmental impact, showcasing the power of partnership and innovation in modern infrastructure development."
“We are thrilled to see these state-of-the-art electric trains enter service for Caltrain,” said Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc. “Since our partnership began in 2017, it has been a pleasure to work with such a forward-thinking organization. Caltrain stands out as a true pioneer in the transit industry, setting a new standard by fully electrifying and modernizing their infrastructure. This makes them a model for transit agencies nationwide. As the vehicle provider, we are honored to contribute to this significant modernization project. We are confident that these new trains will enhance the commuting experience through Silicon Valley by making it more comfortable, convenient, reliable, faster and, most importantly, emission-free. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Caltrain for their trust in us and look forward to continuing our collaboration with this innovative agency.”
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About Caltrain: Owned and operated by the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, Caltrain provides rail service from San Francisco to San Jose, with commute service to Gilroy. Serving the region since 1863, Caltrain is the oldest continually operating rail system west of the Mississippi. Looking to the future, Caltrain is set to electrify the corridor by 2024, which will reduce diesel emissions and add more service to more stations while advancing the agency’s equity goals.
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Media Contact: Dan Lieberman, 650.622.2492