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FAREWELL 2018! a calmod year in review
This year, we've made great progress on the Caltrain Modernization (CalMod) program. In January 2018, we launched a new website,
CalMod.org, the one-stop-shop to get all the exciting updates on CalMod construction and the electric trains as well as information on events and other resources.
Construction has been underway since July 2017. This year, we reached many construction milestones including pouring 550+ foundations, installing 250+ poles, and stringing the first mile of wire in San Bruno. Work on the traction power facilities began in San Jose and South San Francisco, and pre-construction work has occurred throughout the corridor from San Francisco to San Jose. Most of the construction work happens at night to make sure Caltrain can still serve over 65,000 daily riders. To view a time-lapse of a pole installation in South San Francisco, click
here.
Work on the new high-performance electric trains gained momentum this year as well. In March, the first car's roof was welded to the car's lower half, marking the start of recognizable train cars. Manufacturing progressed, including inspections and various testing, and in the summer, the first cab car donned the new exterior design chosen by Caltrain riders. This cab is now ready for interior equipment and furnishing installation. Three trainsets are now underway, and the new electric
train manufacturing plant in Salt Lake City, Utah is giving riders a lot to be excited about.
The "Did You Know" and the Rider Appreciation campaigns were launched, sharing the future benefits of the electric trains and thanking all of you for your continued support during construction.
- In March, our "Did You Know" social media campaign was designed to educate the public about the project. The campaign reached 10,743 people and 2,499 of you engaged with our posts!
- In November, Rider Appreciation events were held in San Francisco, Redwood City, and San Jose. The events were a great opportunity to hear directly from riders about why they are excited about CalMod.
We held 52 community outreach events up and down the Caltrain corridor to educate and answer questions about the project. Over 170,000 mailers were sent to residents throughout the corridor to ensure everyone was well-informed of construction activities and the benefits of the new trains.
Learn more about how you can get involved.
And to end the year with more great news - we
received funding to build an additional 37 electric vehicles and install Wi-Fi on the new electric trains! This will allow Caltrain to retire additional diesel trains, making room for additional comfort and convenience for our riders.
It's been a great year, and we are excited about more to come in 2019!
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