Caltrain Electrification: Rail Advancements in San Francisco-San Jose

Caltrain electrification is complete! Learn how the $2.4 billion project brought electric trains and improved service to the San Francisco Bay Area in November 2023.

Caltrain Electrification: Rail Advancements in San Francisco-San Jose
July 26, 2016 1:15 pm
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Introduction

In November 2023, Caltrain’s Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project reached a significant milestone with the commencement of revenue service on its electrified line, utilizing new electric trains. The project, which has been in development for several years, marks a major upgrade for the commuter rail service.

Project Overview

The Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project involved the electrification of the Caltrain corridor between San Francisco and San Jose, a distance of approximately 51 miles. The total cost of the project was approximately $2.4 billion. The project aimed to replace the existing diesel-powered trains with electric multiple units (EMUs), resulting in reduced emissions, improved service frequency, and quieter operation. The project was originally planned to be completed in 2022, but faced delays.

Infrastructure Upgrades

Key infrastructure upgrades included the installation of overhead catenary systems (OCS) to supply power to the EMUs. The OCS required the construction of new traction power substations to provide electricity to the overhead lines. Additionally, improvements were made to the existing track infrastructure to accommodate the new trains. Caltrain also constructed the new Centralized Equipment Maintenance and Operations (CEMO) facility in San Jose for train maintenance.

Rolling Stock

The project introduced a new fleet of EMUs manufactured by Stadler Rail. The new trains offer enhanced passenger amenities, including increased seating capacity and improved accessibility. The Stadler EMUs are designed to operate at speeds up to 79 mph. The new trains are expected to provide more frequent service and reduce travel times.
Caltrain electrification

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Service Impact

The commencement of revenue service with the EMUs is a significant step towards achieving the project’s goals of enhanced service and environmental benefits. Caltrain expects that the electrification will provide more reliable and efficient service for its riders. The new trains are quieter and produce zero tailpipe emissions. The electrification project is expected to increase ridership on the Caltrain line.

Conclusion

The Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project, costing approximately $2.4 billion, achieved revenue service in November 2023. The project involved the electrification of 51 miles of track between San Francisco and San Jose, using new Stadler EMUs. This upgrade aims to reduce emissions, improve service frequency, and enhance passenger experience.

Company Summary

Stadler Rail: Stadler Rail manufactures rolling stock, including electric multiple units (EMUs) used in the Caltrain project. They are a key supplier for the project.

Caltrain: Caltrain operates commuter rail service in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project is a major infrastructure upgrade for the rail service.

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