Caltrain Rail Corridor Electrification: San Francisco – San Jose Factsheet

Lead Agency:
Caltrain

Contractor:
To be determined by competitive bid

Project Limits:
52 mile rail corridor from San Francisco to San Jose

Construction Cost:
$471 Million

Begin Construction:
2009

End Construction:
2012

Reason for Project:
This project will result in a faster, more efficient and more environmentally friendly rail system, than current diesel powered trains. Electric trains can accelerate and decelerate faster than diesel trains. The electric system could provide a savings of 13% in travel time between San Francisco and San Jose, which would further stimulate ridership. Greater ridership would, in turn, reduce congestion on Bay Area freeways, and reduce the demand for parking space in local cities.

Another benefit is that electric powered trains are significantly quieter, which will benefit neighbors residing along the corridor. Additionally, the switch to electric locomotives will reduce air pollutant emissions from trains by up to 90%, and decrease power consumption. With current fuel prices, Caltrain has estimated an annual energy cost savings of $3 million, by operating an electrical service.

Scope of Work:
This project requires the installation of two power substations and eight auto-transformer stations, with capacity for 172 trains at peak five-minute headways. Work will occur along the length of the rail corridor to string wires for the overhead contact system, which will provide power to trains at up to 90 mph, with the capability to adjust for 125 mph high speed rail.

During the same timeframe, electric locomotives or electric multiple unit trainsets will be purchased and brought into revenue service, as part of this project.