Caltrain recently completed the most extensive construction project of its 143-year history, upgrading the tracks, adding passing tracks, improving communications systems and rebuilding two train stations. With the infrastructure in place, Caltrain was able to reinvent the service to match the new capabilities. The outcome after exhaustive analysis, rider feedback and peer and technical review: more, faster and better service.

The new Baby Bullet express whisks passengers from San Jose to San Francisco in just 57 minutes. Riders also can choose from streamlined limited-stop service providing passengers with greater travel flexibility. And with more weekday trains to choose from, riders are voting with their feet—the new service is an overwhelming success posting a 25 percent ridership increase since its inception in June 2004.

The re-invention of Caltrain has not only made an impression with riders but with industry experts, too. Caltrain’s new system earned many accolades including the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s Grand Award and the California Transportation Foundation’s Tranny Program of the Year Award.

In addition to reinventing the service, Caltrain is building a $139.4 million maintenance facility in San Jose. The project is slated for completion in 2007.

Fast Fact: Caltrain did not increase its budget or add staff for the new Baby Bullet express service because of improved turn-times and crew scheduling.