Caltrain announces rail electrification delay, cost hike

Caltrain last week announced that the launch of its electrified service has been delayed until late 2024.

The delay, currently being reviewed by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), is due to a range of factors, including complications in the installation of signal systems, unforeseen conditions under Caltrain’s tracks, and the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which severely disrupted supply chains necessary to the project, Caltrain officials said in a press release.

To date, 75% percent of foundations for the catenary poles are complete, while 60% of the poles have been installed. Additionally, all of the 10 traction power facilities are under construction. The overhead contact system has been installed in all of Caltrain’s four tunnels.

Also, the first electric trainset has been completed and is being tested at the Transportation Technology Center in Pueblo, Colorado.

Based on the progress so far, and design and construction work remaining, the FTA prepared and provided a draft “Risk Refresh Report” to Caltrain, estimating that the project will need an additional $333 million, increasing the project cost from $1.98 billion to $2.3 billion.

Of the $333 million in forecasted costs, Caltrain has identified a funding plan for the known and allocated costs of $161 million. The remaining $172 million is in unallocated costs that have been set aside as a reserve for unknown risks. The agency will develop a funding plan over the next several months in coordination with the project funding partners, agency officials said.

"These delays are disappointing, because the electrification of Caltrain is desperately needed," said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard. "However, much has already been accomplished, and together with our contractors, funding partners and stakeholders, we will deliver the modern rail service that the [San Francisco] Bay Area deserves."