Capitol Corridor Awarded $42.51 Million from the Federal Railroad Administration

September 25, 2023

Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements. Grant will support Sacramento to Roseville Third Track Project (SR3T) 

Oakland, CA, September 25, 2023 – The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced it has awarded $42.51 million to the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, to complete Phase 1 of its Sacramento to Roseville Third Track Project (SR3T). Once completed, two additional roundtrips will be added between Sacramento and Roseville.  

“This is a significant grant. It’s the first federal funding awarded to CCJPA under the new Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the first federal investment in our service since 2009,” said Capitol Corridor Managing Director Robert Padgette. “These investments will provide better connections, reliability, and safety for more people throughout the region.” 

CCJPA is actively pursuing other state and federal support for rail enhancement projects along the Capitol Corridor’s 170-mile corridor from Auburn to San Jose. The CRISI award will close the remaining funding gap, enabling the completion of the Phase 1 project. The state of California will provide a 71.9 percent non-federal match. This is one of the twelve Northern California Megaregional projects supported by the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG), Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), and San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG). 

“The Capitol Corridor is a vital artery for our community, providing folks with access throughout the Sacramento region and beyond. That’s why I have been such a strong, long-time advocate for bold federal investments in our passenger rail infrastructure,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Thanks to the transformative Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects like CCJPA’s Sacramento to Roseville Third Track are becoming a reality and will improve the economy and lives of communities throughout the region. I was proud to advocate for this funding and ensure CCJPA can continue expanding their services.”  

CCJPA Board Chair Robert Raburn added, “We are grateful to receive this CRISI grant. This award is a testament to CCJPA’s fearless approach to the evolution of rail in Northern California for future generations.”   

“CCJPA’s Sacramento to Roseville Third Track project will provide Placer County residents with more options to travel on the Capitol Corridor service,” said Congressman Kevin Kiley. “I am glad to support this project that will reduce traffic congestion and increase safety in the Capitol region.”  

The heavily traveled rail corridor owned by Union Pacific Railroad (UP) serves Capitol Corridor, Amtrak Long Distance service and UP freight traffic. In 2008, CCJPA and UP identified the third track project was needed for development in two phases: 

The first phase of the project will allow two additional round trips over the current one round trip for a total of three round trips.  

The second phase would add an additional seven round trips for a total of ten round trips to/from Roseville. Additional improvements include new railroad signals; existing track rehabilitation of a detour track to facilitate the project construction phasing; utility relocation; retaining walls, crash walls, a new railroad bridge over Dry Creek; a new CCJPA Layover facility, safety enhancements to two public and three private at-grade crossings along the alignment, and additional right-of-way security fencing to deter trespassers. CCJPA is nearing the 90 percent design completion and is working to secure additional right-of-way in preparation of entering the construction phase of the project in late 2024. 

“This is great news for the City of Roseville and Placer County,” said Mayor of Roseville, CCJPA Board Vice Chair, and PCTPA Board Director Bruce Houdesheldt. “Once both phases are completed, this project will expand the Capitol Corridor service to a total of 10 daily round trips to and from Roseville.” 

The CRISI Program, which is administered by the Federal Railroad Administration, advances projects that modernize America’s freight and passenger rail infrastructure, allowing people and goods to move more safely and efficiently and helping make goods more affordable for American families. – FRA 

  

About CCJPA and the Capitol Corridor®
Managed by the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA), the Capitol Corridor is an intercity rail service connecting the most economically vibrant urban centers in Northern California – from Sacramento to Silicon Valley, and including San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley. With free Wi-Fi on board, Capitol Corridor trains provide a convenient, reliable, and comfortable alternative to the congested I-80, I-680, and I-880 freeways for more than 700,000 passengers a year. For more information, visit www.capitolcorridor.org 

 

Contact: Vernaé Graham, Capitol Corridor 

 

  

National Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15, 2023

Each year from September 15 to October 15, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central, and South America. First established in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson, it later expanded to a 30-day national celebration as observed today by President Ronald Reagan. 

Many Hispanic/Latino families immigrated to the US for a better life and more opportunities. In fact, U.S. railroads employed a large population of them (mostly of Mexican descent), between the mid-19thand–early-20th centuries. Known as traqueros, these railroad workers relocated to the Midwest and western parts of the country, and many lived in boxcars only a few feet away from railroad tracks.  

Mexican box car rail workers standing on unbuilt tracks
Unidentified group of Mexican railroad workers, courtesy of New Mexico History Museum

As the most convenient and affordable way to work along tracks, boxcars became a permanent home to many workers and families, although living and working conditions were suboptimal. By 1925, about 1.8 million workers were employed by U.S. railroads 

To learn more, check out the Boxcar People documentary, which highlights the personal stories and struggles of Mexican railroad workers and families.  

How you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

There are many ways to celebrate Hispanic heritage all year-long. From museums, dining, and shopping in San Francisco’s Mission District, Oakland’s Fruitvale District, and in many San Jose neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of places to visit along Capitol Corridor’s route!

Events

Take the train to an event! Events below are near stations along Capitol Corridor’s route. With our seamless connections to BART, buses, and light rail, getting to your destination is easy.

September 15 – October 15, 2023: (San Jose) There are various Hispanic Heritage Events at the Mexican Heritage Plaza, MACLA, and Peralta Adobe.

Friday, September 22, 2023: (Oakland) Friday Nights at OMCA is the place to be for celebratory and meaningful things to see and be part of, with plenty of signature features including Off the Grid food trucks as well as music, dancing, late-night access to OMCA’s award-winning galleries with a Museum ticket, and more. Many of their September programs celebrate Latinx Heritage Month. Check out the first one! 

Saturday, September 30 – October 1, 2023: (Oakland) Join Children’s Fairyland for the Latinx Heritage Celebration in the park for a vibrant, uplifting, and inspired weekend of family fun honoring the heritages and cultures within the Latinx community.  
Learn more here 

Friday, October 13, 2023: (Sacramento) Celebrate the new exhibit Arte Activista: Dia de los Muertos 2023 at the California Museum’s annual Día de los Muertos Fiesta!
Register HERE 

Sunday, October 29, 2023: (Sacramento) Immerse yourself in the rich sounds and melodies of Mariachi music as talented musicians take the stage at the iconic Sacramento Memorial Auditorium.
Register HERE 

GRIDIRON SEASON IS HERE! TAKE CAPITOL CORRIDOR TRAINS TO 49ER HOME GAMES AT LEVI’S ® STADIUM!

September 14, 2023

Oakland, CA, September 14, 2023 – San Francisco 49er fans, it’s that time of year to gear up for game day by taking Capitol Corridor to Levi’s Stadium this football season.  

Niner fans can take advantage of Capitol Corridor’s Friends and Family Half-Fare promotion, buy one adult full-fare ticket and save 50% on up to five companion fares. So, leave the car behind and sit back and start your tailgate on the train. Enjoy the onboard amenities that include FREE Wi-Fi, spacious restrooms, comfortable seats, and a Café Car, with specialty beverages.  

 

First home game is Thursday, September 21, 2023, against the New York Giants (see game and train schedules). For train updates, sign up for Capitol Corridor service alerts through email/SMS text @RideCCRail.com. 

 

 

 

About CCJPA and the Capitol Corridor®`
Managed by the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA), the Capitol Corridor is an intercity rail service connecting the most economically vibrant urban centers in Northern California – from Sacramento to Silicon Valley, and including San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley. With free Wi-Fi on board, Capitol Corridor trains provide a convenient, reliable, and comfortable alternative to the congested I-80, I-680, and I-880 freeways for more than 700,000 passengers a year. For more information, visit www.capitolcorridor.org 

Contact: Vernaé Graham, Capitol Corridor 

Minor Delays Between Davis and Fairfield-Vacaville Stations 9/15-17/23

Starting September 15, 2023, Union Pacific Railroad will be undertaking a bridge improvement project between Davis and Fairfield-Vacaville stations. This project is scheduled to be completed by September 17, 2023. This project may cause delays of up to 20 minutes to trains that are traveling between Davis and Fairfield stations through the rest of September 2023.

Thank you for your patience!

CC Rail Mail: More Information on Special Schedule for 49er Game, Ed Sheeran, Transit Month, Rail Safety Month, and MORE

September 13, 2023

Special Train Schedule for NY Giants vs. 49ers Game on 9/21

The Capitol Corridor is offering an adjusted train schedule for the upcoming New York Giants vs San Francisco 49ers game at Levi’s Stadium (GAC) on 9/21!

  • Train 541 will arrive GAC at 2:38pm and Train 543 will arrive GAC at 5:05pm
  • Train 550 will depart GAC at 9:52pm

*Adjusted service schedule for upcoming home games coming soon!

Take advantage of our Friends and Family Half-Fare promotion, buy one adult full-fare ticket and save 50% on up to five companion fares.

Book here

49er drink
NEW 49ers Drink Onboard!

There is no better way to pregame than to enjoy a refreshing drink on the train! Head to our Café Car for Cutwater’s Watermelon Ranch Water for $6 on home game days (9/21, 10/1, 10/8, 10/29, 11/19, 12/10, 12/25) and $7 all other days.


Ed Sheeran
Special Train Schedule to Ed Sheeran Concert 9/16

Hey Sheerios, take the train to see Ed Sheeran at Levi’s® Stadium on September 16, 2023! The Capitol Corridor is offering an adjusted train schedule to better accommodate passengers to watch Ed Sheeran perform! Skip the traffic/ parking hassles and relaxed (or pre-game) onboard. Our trains offer FREE Wi-Fi, restrooms, comfortable seats, and Café Car onboard.

See schedule and book here


Transit Month
Transit Month and All Aboard with Transit CEOs Ride-a-Long on 9/29

September is Transit Month! To celebrate, we came up with 30 reasons why you should ride Capitol Corridor! Whether you’re traveling for work or planning that next weekend trip, taking the train is seamless, sustainable, and fun. Read more

Our friends at San Francisco Transit Riders are hosting multiple events throughout September, featuring different transit agencies in the Bay Area. Learn more about each agency by participating in events like scavenger hunts, tours, and giveaways! Events here

In addition, join us on a Ride-along/Happy Hour with Transit CEOs on 9/29, including our Managing Director, Rob Padgette! The public will have an opportunity to mingle and ask any questions/comments about Capitol Corridor service, upcoming plans, or provide feedback. We can’t wait to see you onboard!

Find out more about this and the other GM Ride-Along here


Rail Safety Month
Rail Safety Month

Did you know? California has the highest number of rail related fatalities and ranks #1 for trespasser casualties in the United States. Safety is Capitol Corridor’s top priority and we’re committed to sharing safety tips with our riders to avoid dangerous situations around rail tracks.

Here are some helpful tips and facts you should know.

 


New Movies 2023
New Movies Onboard!

We are excited to announce that we’ve added NEW movies you can stream for FREE while riding the Capitol Corridor! Whether you’re taking a short or long trip, we offer a variety of movies you can enjoy onboard. To stream, please connect to our free onboard Wi-Fi and select “YourTrainWiFi” to access the Internet. Let us know your favorites!

Movies Include:

  • Amsterdam, Avatar: The Way of Water
  • The Banshees of Inisherin
  • The Bob’s Burgers Movie
  • The French Dispatch
  • The King’s Man
  • The Other Woman
  • The Post
  • See How They Run
  • Underwater