Caltrain Electrification Project Delayed Two Years Until 2024

SAN CARLOS, CA — Caltrain’s electrification project has been delayed until late 2024. In a news release on Thursday, the transit agency blamed a number of factors including COVID-19, complications in installing signal systems and conditions under the tracks.

The project, which broke ground in 2017 and had been slated for completion by late next year, would shift Caltrain from using diesel to electricity to power its trains. Currently, 75 percent of foundations for catenary poles are complete and 60 percent of the poles are installed.

The cost of the project has also increased by $333 million, upping the total price to $2.3 billion. Caltrain said it has allocated $161 million for the additional costs, and the remaining funds will come from unallocated costs set aside as a reserve for unknown risks.

“These delays are disappointing, because the electrification of Caltrain is desperately needed,” said Michelle Bouchard, Caltrain’s Executive Director, in a news release. “However, much has already been accomplished, and together with our contractors, funding partners and stakeholders, we will deliver the modern rail service that the Bay Area deserves.”

Caltrain officials discussed the delay during a board meeting on Thursday afternoon.

Added Dev Davis, Chair of the Joint Powers Board that oversees Caltrain: “There is no question that the electrification of Caltrain is vital to the Bay Area. It is the foundation of the expanded service that is necessary to shrink our carbon footprint, get cars off our highways and help people throughout the region get where they need to go conveniently and affordably.”