Going Green: Caltrain Begins Testing Electrified Trains

In an exciting step toward full electrification, Caltrain ran its first tests running trains using its electric catenary – or overhead contact—system. These initial tests will run between the Santa Clara and College Park stations and are the first round of runs that will ideally proceed fully electric service between San Jose and San Francisco by 2024. 

The Bay Area Council was instrumental in securing the funding that made this transformative project possible. For over a decade, the Council has advocated at the local, state, and federal levels for an electrified Caltrain. At the beginning of this year, the Council, as part of a strong coalition , secured the final piece of the puzzle in a $367 million award from the state of California’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). 

When complete, Caltrain will be the first electric commuter railroad in the country. “The start of testing for our new electric trains marks a historic moment for our agency, symbolizing tangible progress towards electrification,” said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard. “It signifies a future of improved service, reduced environmental impact and a more reliable experience that will benefit both our riders and the communities that we serve.”

The Council congratulates Caltrain on this exciting achievement and looks forward to its electrified future.