This week, Caltrain debuted the first electric train fleet for the ongoing electrification project. The trains welcomed the first group of passengers on August 11, and more will be added to the fleet every week until September 21.
The electrification project is good news for commuters; once the fleet is completed on September 21, Caltrain will switch to a faster and more frequent service schedule. This is due to faster acceleration and deceleration with the electric feet. The new schedule includes direct service between SF and San Jose in under an hour. Plus, weekend service will increase to every half hour as opposed to every hour. Peak stations will also have service every 15-20 minutes with the new schedule.
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.”
The project has also been hailed as an economic success, with a reported 33,000 jobs created. The cost of the project was no small sum, with Caltrain announcing in 2021 the expected cost had increased to 2.44 billion.
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 new electric fleet has been eight years in the making, with the project starting in 2016. The electrification project also focused on making the trains more comfortable for passengers. The new trains include plentiful power outlets, Wi-Fi, and increased storage.