Caltrain Timetable Changes to Take Effect in Late August

Caltrain will begin operating on its new 76-train timetable Aug. 26. The timetable reflects adjustments to peak-hour trains and the elimination of four trains.

The service modifications come in response to declining ridership and a tightly constrained budget. Before service cuts were made, Caltrain tightened its budget by putting a moratorium on certain unfilled positions and postponing some capital projects.

Enough capacity is available on the remaining peak-hour trains to accommodate all of the passengers from eliminated Trains 25, 29, 70 and 80. During both the morning and evening commutes, trains are scheduled to depart within 20 minutes of the eliminated trains.

Three public comment meetings were held to gather input on the proposed changes. The new timetable reflects passenger recommendations received during the public comment period.

In July, Caltrain marked 10 years of service under the leadership of the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board. Since the JPB began operating Caltrain, train service has increased nearly 30 percent, commute-hour service to Gilroy has been added and ridership has grown dramatically. While these service reductions represent a temporary setback, Caltrain is looking forward to the opening of the new Millbrae Intermodal Station and the beginning of Baby Bullet express service in 2004 as we continue to make service improvements.

New timetables are available onboard trains, at staffed stations and by calling Caltrain at 1.800.660.4287 (or TDD only 650.508.6448).