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While we should all remain vigilant with COVID-19 cases currently rising in the Bay Area, there are continued signs of a return to normalcy as we see more offices reopening and events popping up throughout our corridor. This explains why Highway 101 is experiencing increased congestion, pollution and long commutes – a fact that underlines the importance of Caltrain and our ongoing push to modernize the system so we can provide an alternative to spending valuable time stuck in traffic.
This month, we completed the installation of a new signal system at 17 crossings in mid-San Mateo County, which will be necessary for electrified service. Our Board also voted to postpone scheduled fare increases to further encourage ridership recovery and provide price stability to customers during these challenging economic times. Finally, recent promotions and special events – including half off fares during the month of April and the return of Bay to Breakers for the first time since 2019 – have successfully brought in additional passengers, demonstrating that our service remains an attractive option to all types of riders.
We are continuing to do the important work needed to deliver a safer, more reliable, and state-of-the-art riding experience that our customers deserve. In the meantime, our diesel fleet is still putting in work and will require additional investment in the capital budget to remain in good working order until we launch electrified service. We continue to see more people returning to our system day by day, week by week. Now and in the future, Caltrain is here for those who need it.
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