The system made the switch to faster, more modern all-electric trains in September.

Northern California’s Caltrain saw a 54 percent increase in ridership year-over-year in October 2024, reports Kate Talerico for Mass Transit. The agency recently switched to all-electric trains.
“Total ridership on the commuter rail line between San Francisco and the South Bay increased 17% between August — the last month of primarily diesel service — and October, the first month of all-electric. Weekend ridership — with service every 30 minutes rather than every hour — grew by 38%.” Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) also saw an increase in ridership.
According to Talerico, “Caltrain’s new trains are not only more environmentally friendly than their diesel forerunners, they’re also faster. Whereas a diesel train running express could get commuters between San Jose and San Francisco in an hour and five minutes with stops at seven stations, the new trains stop at 11 stations and make the journey in just 59 minutes.”
The new trains also feature on-board Wi-Fi, power outlets, and digital displays.
FULL STORY: CA: Caltrain ridership soars to highest levels since COVID with new electric trains

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.

San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.

A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
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