Events honored the HNTB-program-managed electrification project
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 24, 2024) – HNTB joins Caltrain in celebrating the completion of the Caltrain Electrification Project, marking a transformative leap toward modernized, sustainable public transportation along the San Francisco Peninsula corridor. To mark the occasion, Caltrain held celebratory events last weekend in every city along the corridor in addition to other events hosted by local cities and other transportation agencies.
“Completing the Caltrain Electrification Project marks a pivotal moment for the entire San Francisco Peninsula community as we move toward a more sustainable and efficient future,” stated Pranaya Shrestha, PE, HNTB senior program manager. “We’re honored to have partnered with Caltrain on this project and to celebrate this important milestone. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering innovative solutions that significantly improve public transportation and reduce environmental impact.”
This ambitious project — aimed at electrifying the Caltrain service from San Francisco Caltrain Station at 4th and King to the Tamien Caltrain Station in San Jose — represents a significant improvement in service efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The electrification initiative includes the introduction of 19 new, high-performance seven-car electric trainsets, replacing diesel-hauled trains. The project also includes service enhancements, including running trains every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours and saving riders up to 25 minutes on their commute from San Francisco to San Jose.
“We celebrate not just the completion of a project but a transformative leap forward for our community and every rider who will benefit from these advancements,” said Michelle Bouchard, Caltrain executive director. “We are grateful for partners like HNTB, who have helped us bring this visionary project to life. Their expertise was a vital tool in the effort to provide our community with a safer, more efficient and sustainable Caltrain.”
HNTB’s responsibility in the Caltrain Electrification Project included providing leadership and program management, driving the project toward success. The firm also oversaw the procurement of multiple new electric units for Caltrain and the upgrade of the existing maintenance facility to accommodate the new fleet. Additionally, the firm also oversaw the implementation of wireless grade crossing technology, a unique feature of this project. These advancements were achieved while maintaining continuous diesel service, minimizing disruption to daily commutes.
The weekend celebration events allowed attendees to experience the new electric train sets and the faster, more frequent schedule, enjoy community booths and local food options as well as engage with the project team about the technologies and innovations implemented.