Caltrain Finalizes Electrified Service Plan

Caltrain announced its new plan for electrified service this month, which includes faster transit times and more frequent service including during weekends. Starting fall 2024, Caltrain will see four trains per hour running in each direction on weekdays, including an express train running between San Jose and San Francisco in under an hour, while local service will take 75 minutes instead of the current 100. Weekends will see a train every half hour, while stations see a 20% increase in service. 

First Two Train Sets Complete 1,000 Miles of Testing

The second of the new electric train sets have completed their mandatory 1,000 miles of traveling on the Caltrain corridor, making them officially fit to begin electrified service next fall. Caltrain will continue to test each train set until all 23 are ready for passenger service in fall 2024. 

Emergency Drill Held at Bayshore

Caltrain conducted an emergency drill at Bayshore Station this month, offering local emergency personnel their first chance to get more familiar with Caltrain’s new electric vehicles and infrastructure. The drill simulated an earthquake resulting in a dewiring, requiring Caltrain employees to secure the area so first responders could provide aid to passengers. Thanks to the North County, South San Francisco and San Francisco Fire Departments as well as the Transit Police for participating so that, in case of emergency, our passengers can rest assured they’re in good hands.

Caltrain Publishes 2023 Year in Review

Caltrain has published a webpage detailing its accomplishments over the course of 2023. Readers of this newsletter will be familiar with many of these, from purchasing the first battery electric train in the country to passing the first-ever two-year budget to the agency redoubling its safety efforts. Caltrain is committed to continuing to improve its services to meet the needs of its riders and looks forward to meeting many more milestones in 2024.

Free Fares for New Years Eve

Caltrain will again offer free fares after 8 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, allowing revelers to get home safely after ringing in the new year. If you’re looking for one last opportunity to enjoy the Caltrain experience in 2023, or want to be first in line to ride a train in 2024, this is your best chance. Happy New Year to all of our riders!

Holiday Train Delights Thousands

On December 2-3, the Holiday Train made its trip down the Peninsula, delighting thousands of revelers. Making stops at nine stations, this show train decorated with over 75,000 glittering lights put on a show for all in attendance, while collecting nearly 1500 toys for the Salvation Army and the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this beloved Bay Area tradition!

Promotional Fares Still Available!

Caltrain is still offering fare promotions now and into the new year that make it easier than ever to ride Caltrain. There are discounts for families and groups that travel together, $1 rides for Clipper Youth Card holders and a three day unlimited pass, all while parking at Caltrain stations is half off. So if you have somewhere to go, get on board Caltrain and save money and time.