Caltrain to Adjust Service in Response to Significantly Lower Ridership: March 13, 2020 Announcement

In response to a significant decline in ridership stemming from efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Caltrain will be adjusting its weekday service, effective Tuesday, March 17.

Morning and afternoon peak hour service will no longer feature Baby Bullet Service. See the March 17 Reduced Weekday Schedule.

Local and limited service will continue to operate as scheduled, as will off–peak service, including midday and weekend service. Caltrain will be constantly monitoring ridership during this time and may implement additional service changes, as needed.

Caltrain is assessing the overall impact that reduced ridership will have on its ability to maintain operations in the coming months. One-way and Day Pass ticket sales have declined by approximately 75% from their levels two weeks ago. With no other dedicated source of funding, Caltrain relies primarily on fares to cover the system’s operating costs.

Caltrain continues to maintain daily onboard cleaning and sanitation protocols in compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

Safety is Caltrain’s top priority and we urge everyone to take preventative measures to reduce the spread of illnesses:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after riding public transit. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid eating while onboard.
• Do not cough into your hands. Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow.
• Stay home if you are sick.

For the latest information about Coronavirus, please refer to information and guidance provided by the following public health agencies:

• San Francisco Department of Public Health
• San Mateo County Health Department
• Santa Clara County Public Health Department
• Centers for Disease Control

Caltrain stands ready to respond as necessary in partnership with public health officials.