After many years of construction, weekend shutdowns, and political maneuvering, the Caltrain system servicing the Peninsula has finally been electrified.
To celebrate the accomplishment, free rides were offered to the public at all stations last weekend from San Francisco to Gilroy.
According to Philip Rohrbough: "This model is called KISS. I love the German language, and this acronym is a classic: Komfortabler Innovativer Spurtstarker S-Bahn-Zug. They were built by Stadler, a Swiss company, in Salt Lake City."
I miss the old-fashioned funk of the previous carbon-burning trains, but won't miss the slowness and bumpiness and constant breakdowns.
Brian Barneclo's 2011 System mural near the San Francisco station is still impressive, even covered in graffiti.
One thing that hasn't changed are the many passengers immersed in their virtual worlds...
...while ignoring natural wonders like the Brisbane Lagoon.
There was an afternoon celebration near the station in downtown San Mateo, with politicians making speeches...
...to huge crowds looking for giveaways at various booths.
At least it was heartening to see Brian Barneclo's mural from 2017 has fared better at its San Mateo location.
1 comment:
Hadn't been aware this had come online. Became more appreciative of trains during a month in the UK last summer!
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