Caltrain Modernization

Former SFMTA and VTA CEO to lead Caltrain Modernization Program

At the Caltrain Board meeting on Feb. 4, 2016, Executive Director Jim Hartnett announced that Michael Burns, who retired as the Chief Executive Officer for the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority in 2014, will take the reins of the Caltrain Modernization Program. The Caltrain Modernization Program is the most transformative project in the rail system’s 150-year history, the agency says. The program will electrify the system and provide electric vehicles to operate with the electrified infrastructure.

Caltrain electrification costs, timeframe increase

The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board on Nov. 11, 2014 received updated information about a higher projected cost and extended timeframe for the Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project (PCEP), which includes Caltrain electrification and the purchase of new electric multiple-unit railcars.

Caltrain electrification design-build gets nod

California Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr., has signed California Senate Bill (SB) 785, legislation that allows the Caltrain electrification project to proceed as a design/build procurement. The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board’s (Caltrain’s owner/operator) authority to issue design/build contracts expires at the end of this year, but SB 785 extends the authorization until 2024. Officials said extension of design/ build authority was necessary for the project to proceed as planned.

Mike Scanlon announces retirement

After nearly 50 years in public transportation, including 15 years as General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the San Mateo County Transit District, Michael J. Scanlon on August 28, 2014 announced his retirement.