This week marks important progress for California’s high-speed rail. On Thursday, the California High-Speed Rail Authority announced its new CEO, Ian Choudri. Today, Choudri joined Governor Gavin Newsom in San Francisco to celebrate the launch of Caltrain’s new electric train fleet. These trains will improve rail service in the Bay Area and connect to California’s high-speed rail system.
The electrification project, supported by over $1.3 billion in state funding, includes more than $700 million from high-speed rail. It’s a key part of Governor Newsom’s plan to speed up infrastructure development.
High-speed rail has made great strides in the past year, with historic funding from the Biden-Harris Administration, environmental reviews from Los Angeles to the Bay Area completed, and nearly 14,000 jobs created. Trainset selection and station construction are next on the list.
“Caltrain’s project is a crucial step towards electrified rail across California,” said Ian Choudri, the new CEO. “I’m proud to join the Governor and other leaders today to celebrate this milestone. Let’s continue building momentum for the future of transportation.”
The Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project is transforming the Caltrain route between San Francisco and San Jose from diesel to electric, reducing emissions and increasing capacity. It also prepares the corridor for future high-speed rail service. Caltrain estimates the project will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 250,000 tons annually, which is like removing 55,000 cars from the roads. After completion:
- Express trains will run in less than an hour, compared to 65 minutes today.
- Local trains will take 75 minutes, down from 100 minutes.
- 16 stations will have service every 15-20 minutes during peak periods, up from only 7 today.
- All stations will have service every 30 minutes midday, evenings, and weekends, instead of hourly.
Construction began in July 2017. Limited passenger service starts tomorrow, with full service beginning next month.