Caltrain celebrates historic electrification of San Francisco to San Jose line with free rides and parties this weekend
San Mateo, California – Caltrain makes a historic first this weekend because it fully electrifies its service across the San Francisco to San Jose line. Caltrain is celebrating this major update with a huge launch celebration and free rides to all of its passengers this weekend.
Caltrain will celebrate in every city along the route starting on Saturday, September 21 and ending on Sunday, September 22. The main events will take place in San Mateo on Sunday at the same hours and in Palo Alto on Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m.
Food trucks, live music events, dancing groups, Caltrain advocacy speeches, railroad museum exhibits, and lots of Caltrain-themed gifts will all be on display at these events. A flash mob doing the electric slide is one of the attractions expected to attract crowds.
The festivities this weekend are a display of the features of the new electrified service, not only a celebration. Offering a cleaner and more efficient substitute for the former diesel-powered trains, the corridor will experience completely electric passenger service for the first time in its 160-year history. During peak periods, the new service includes trains stopping at 16 stops with departures every 15 to 20 minutes; on weekends, every 30 minutes. From San Francisco to San Jose, the express service guarantees a quick travel under less than an hour.
Several improvements meant to enhance the passenger experience define the new electric trains. Wi-Fi, onboard digital displays, power outlets at every seat, energy-efficient lighting, and a contemporary temperature control system constitute among the amenities. With onboard cameras and more cozy seating configurations with additional storage space, the trains also provide enhanced security. Furthermore, these trains generate less noise, which smooths down the travel for surroundings as well as passengers.
On August 11, Caltrain unveiled the first batch of these new electric trains; early users have already given them great compliments for their enhanced comfort and performance.
“The new Caltrain is cleaner, greener, faster, and all around better than it ever has been before,” said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard in a press release. “I would like to invite everyone to celebrate this historic achievement this weekend and to see the future of Caltrain for yourselves.”
Sponsored in part by RSE Corporation and Gannett Fleming, the electrification project represents a major advancement in Caltrain’s continuous commitment to improving regional transportation options and thereby furthering its equity goals. Along one of the oldest rail lines in the country, this project is expected to drastically cut emissions, therefore improving the environment.
