Continuing the positive trend from the previous nineteen months, the Capitol Corridor performance in September 2011 maintained a steady upward trend compared to September 2010. September 2011 ridership was 145,894 an 11 % increase over September 2010. Revenue showed even better results with a 16% increase over September 2010. Both of these results were records for the month of September. On-time performance (OTP) was 94%, continuing to keep the Capitol Corridor as the nation’s OTP leader in the Amtrak system for the last two consecutive years, thanks to UPRR’s stellar dispatching and Amtrak’s commitment to improving mechanical performance.

A primary reason for the ridership increase can be seen in the gains associated with UPRR’s OTP as well as discounts offered on the Capitol Corridor: Seniors Ride Half-Off during the midday/mid-weekday trains, Kids Ride Free on Weekends, group travel promotions and discounted trains to the Oakland Coliseum station for the Ringling Brothers circus, A’s and Raider games.

FFY2011 Projected Results

The September 2011 performance results also mark the closing out of federal Fiscal Year (FFY)2011 (October 2010 – September 2011). The Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) is thrilled to announce another recordbreaking year. For FFY2011, ridership totaled 1,708,618 million, 8% above FY2010. Projected year-end revenues were up 12% compared to FFY2010. OTP for FFY2011 was 95%, slightly higher than FFY2010’s 93% OTP results, making the Capitol Corridor the most reliable route in the Amtrak system for two years straight. The projected System Operating (or Farebox) Ratio ended at 49%.

As stated earlier, the entire fiscal year of FFY2011 yielded consistent positive results compared to prior year monthly results, which can be attributed to the end of furlough Fridays for state workers, our slowly recovering economy, remarkable OTP by Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and successful marketing promotions. These overall positive results for FFY2011 resulted in a recordbreaking performance year, with many months setting records and showing double-digit increases compared to the same periods in FFY2010.

In addition, rising gas prices, recordbreaking performance results, a media relations partnership with APTA, the annual Fight Hunger food drive and other news worthy issues helped to garner nearly $1.4 million dollars in earned media value for this federal fiscal year—the most news coverage the Capitol Corridor has achieved in its operating history.

FFY2011 Federal Grants

In May, the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) announced its $68 million award to California’s intercity passenger rail service to procure state-of-the-art train cars and cleaner-running locomotives. The $68 million supplements a prior obligation of $100 million in federal funds earmarked for California. These federal funds, combined with California’s 20% match of $42 million brings a total reinvestment of $210 million—which is expected to bring 10 new cars and two locomotives to the Capitol Corridor in about four years.

Just as the FFY came to a close, the Federal Railroad Administration obligated $4.8 million needed to build the Yolo crossover. The agreement between Caltrans and the FRA was signed off on September 30, thus providing ARRA funds to help create up to 125 jobs and “buy American” materials for a track project that will help enhance efficient service on the Capitol Corridor route.

Looking Ahead – FFY2012
For FFY 2012, service performance is expected to continue its steady improvement. The CCJPA will continue to work with our service partners to retain and attract new riders, enhance passenger safety, maintain excellent service reliability and provide superior customer service.

To supplement this report, attached is a pdf file (please see website) highlighting some of the key activities that have occurred since the previous monthly performance report.

Capitol Corridor (September 2011):
- Ridership: 145,894 riders; +11% vs. September 2010; +8% vs. prior YTD
- Revenue: $2,194,480; +17% vs. September 2010; +12% vs. prior YTD;
- On-Time Performance: 94%; YTD OTP of 95% (again keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation).
- System Operating Ratio: 49% YTD vs. 47% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard; however, diesel fuel prices remain a budget concern.

The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at recordbreaking 1.7 million for the last 12 months.
________________________________________________
Pacific Surfliners (September 2011):
- Ridership: 210,528 passengers; +5% vs. September 2010, and +7% ahead of prior YTD
- Ticket Revenue only: +20% vs. September 2010, and +12% vs. prior YTD
- On-time performance for September 2011 73% (YTD FY 2011 on-time
performance: 78%)
__________________________________________________
San Joaquin (September 2011):
- Ridership: 85,736 passengers +19% vs. September 2010, and +9% vs. prior YTD
- Ticket Revenue only: +19% vs. September 2010, and +14% vs. prior YTD
- On-time performance for September 2011: 90% (YTD FY 2011 on-time
performance: 90%)
___________________________________________________

http://www.capitolcorridor.org/

(Download:  June 2011 Performance Report)

The June 2011 performance results continue positive trends for the Capitol Corridor. The streak is now at sixteen consecutive months where ridership and revenue have exceeded prior year monthly results. In June, the Capitol Corridor established another monthly record with 145,495 riders, representing a 3 percent increase over June 2010. Revenue was projected to be up 9%. On-time performance (OTP) for the Capitol Corridor slipped to 92%, primarily due to delays trespasser incidents and locomotive malfunctions; yet, OTP is 95% for the year to-date keeping the Capitol Corridor as #1 in the Amtrak system.

With the summer season in full swing, the Capitol Corridor has many marketing and advertising promotions underway to keep ridership growing: Seniors Half Off fares midweek, Kids Ride Free on Weekends, and the A’s home game. Another contributor to continued high ridership levels is the consistent superior service reliability which increases the attractiveness of the Capitol Corridor trains. The excellent OTP is due to the Union Pacific Railroad’s continued commitment to a state of good repair for the track infrastructure and disciplined dispatching.

On a related note of commitment, the CCJPA is most pleased with the results of the CCJPA’s second annual charitable food drive. From June 1 through June 15 the CCJPA sponsored the “Fight Hunger-One Stop at a Time” food drive at staffed stations along our corridor with a one-day community food drop-off event on June 6 at the Auburn/Conheim Station. Thanks to our riders, media partners and members of the community, we broke last year’s threshold of 1157 pounds by collecting 1187 pounds of food which will help provide food to many Northern California families in need over the summer.

Capitol Corridor (June 2011):

• Ridership: 145,495 riders; +3% vs. June 2010; +9% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,303,459 +9% vs. June 2010; +11% vs. prior YTD;
• On-Time Performance: 92%; YTD OTP of 95% (again keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation).
• System Operating Ratio: 50% YTD vs. 48% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard; however, diesel fuel prices remain a budget concern.
• The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.68 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (June 2011):

• Ridership: 239,984 passengers; +14% vs. June 2010, and +7% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +19% vs. June 2010, and +11% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for June 2011 80% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 80%)

San Joaquin (June 2011):

• Ridership: 100,947 passengers +14% vs. May 2010, and +7% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +14% vs. June 2010, and +15% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for June 2011: 84% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 90%)

(Download:  May 2011 Performance Report)

The Capitol Corridor continues to achieve stellar performance results. For fifteen consecutive months, our service has experienced ridership and revenue increases. In May, ridership was a remarkable 10 percent above May 2010 and projected revenue was up 13%. Finally, the Capitol Corridor’s on-time performance (OTP) was 96 percent-keeping us number one for OTP in the nation.

Our two-year hold on the national OTP top spot has convinced drivers that the Capitol Corridor is a reliable, convenient, cost-effective and stress-free way to travel between Auburn and San Jose and a viable, green alternative to driving alone. Last month, 152,128 passengers boarded Capitol Corridor trains compared to 138,616 riders in May 2010. As predicted, once we began our popular and new discount offers last month, ridership and revenue showed very favorable results. Our promotions that ran in May include the Seniors Half Off fares, Kids Ride Free on Weekends, the A’s home game and National Train Day discounts.

Speaking of National Train Day, the CCJPA, in partnership with Caltrans Rail and Amtrak, participated in the annual National Train Day celebration on May 7 with a family-orientated event in Martinez. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Golden STAR (State Advocate of Rail) award to CCJPA Vice-Chair Jim Spering, who was recognized for his leadership and commitment to establish intercity passenger rail service in Northern California.

On another community-related note, the Capitol Corridor and Amtrak launched its annual “Fight Hunger One Stop at a Time” food drive campaign on June 1 and we are still accepting food donations at our staffed stations from now until June 15. Please drop a nonperishable food item at the staffed station nearest you to help families in need this summer.

Capitol Corridor (May 2011)

• Ridership: 152,128 riders; +10% vs. May 2010; +9% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,424,543 +13% vs. May 2010; +12% vs. prior YTD;
• On-Time Performance: 96%; YTD OTP of 95% (again keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation).
• System Operating Ratio: 51% YTD vs. 48% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard; however, diesel fuel prices remain a budget concern.

The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.68 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (May 2011):

• Ridership: 251,597 passengers; +4% vs. May 2010, and +6% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +9% vs. May 2010, and +10% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for May 2011 82% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance:80%)

San Joaquin (May 2011):

• Ridership: 97,648 passengers +13% vs. May 2010, and +7% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +19% vs. May 2010, and +14% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for May 2011: 88% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 91%)

(Download:  April 2011 Performance Report)

Good performance news prevails!  For over a year, the Capitol Corridor has experienced an upward trend in ridership.  Our April results show double-digit increases continue for the fourth month in a row—nearly 11 percent more customers avoided the pain at the pump and chose to ride the Capitol Corridor instead of driving.  We achieved a recordbreaking April threshold:  152,781 passengers boarded Capitol Corridor trains compared to 137,871 in April 2010.

Thus, the May 9, 2011, announcement from U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary LaHood to reallocate the $2 billion earlier earmarked for Florida is most welcome news for the Capitol Corridor!  Secretary LaHood announced that these dollars will be reallocated for High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) Projects to grow jobs, boost U.S. manufacturing and transform travel in America.

The Capitol Corridor benefits as the Caltrans Rail and CCJPA will be the recipient of $68M for the acquisition of 15 bi-level passenger rail cars and four clean-running locomotives for all three California Intercity Passenger Rail (CA IPR) corridors.  While the split of the cars and locomotives between the southern (Pacific Surfliner) and northern California (San Joaquin and Capitol Corridor) CA IPR corridors has not been established, I feel confident that the arrival of these cars within the next three to four years couldn’t come any sooner to alleviate what is expected to be ever-growing constrained seating on all three California train services.

From the results of these announcements, the Federal Rail Administration (FRA) and USDOT are serious about restarting the passenger rail equipment industry in this nation.  Financial support from the State and Federal level in the last two fiscal years include:

• Previous $100M FRA grant in FY2010 HSIPR capital funds to Caltrans Rail for 27 passenger cars and four locomotives
• Award of $68M referenced above for CA IPR services plus $268M for a Midwest order
• $87M in matching State of CA Prop 1B funds

The combined resources equal $523M available for the rail car manufacturers.  This is a concerted effort to reinvigorate a lost industry in the US that will result in immediate job creation and economic development in many communities.

On another community-related note: on June 1, the Capitol Corridor is partnering with Amtrak to sponsor the annual Fight Hunger One Stop at a Time food drive campaign.  Please visit a staffed station along our corridor between June 1 and June 15 and drop a nonperishable food item in a partnering food bank collection bin to help the needy.

Capitol Corridor (April 2011):

The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.66 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (April 2011):

San Joaquin (April 2011):

• Ridership: 99,391 passengers +18% vs. April 2010, and +6% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +23% vs. April 2010, and +14% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for April 2011: 93% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 91%)

(Download:  March 2011 Performance Report)

Capitol Corridor’s March 2011 performance statistics are in and it’s clear that January and February’s results were not anomalies. Double-digit increases continue as ridership and revenue results once again set new monthly thresholds: A remarkable 148,198 passengers boarded our trains compared to 133,987 during the same period last year. This 10.6 percent increase in ridership generated a healthy 14 percent increase in revenue.

On-time performance (OTP) for the Capitol Corridor took a bit of a dip to 94 percent. Although this makes the Capitol Corridor number two in the nation for the month of March, our trains still hold the top spot for reliability for year-to-date results.
As gasoline prices soar, more and more drivers are seeking more affordable ways to travel. This scenario will have similar results as what happened in 2008, when gas prices skyrocketed and public transit reached an all time high.  Despite the sharp gas price decrease in 2009, Capitol Corridor ridership did not follow suit, meaning many of those who made the choice to try our trains, stayed on trains. Northern California drivers ditching their cars proved to be fodder for the media as reporters from local, national and international news outlets covered Capitol Corridor’s upward trend in ridership, thus helping to publicize our service to travelers in the communities that we serve.

Caltrans recently applied for federal High Speed Passenger Intercity Rail grants for three projects that affect the Capitol Corridor.  These include:

• Statewide-Rolling Stock Acquisition. Caltrans applied for 26 bi-level cars and four locomotives of which 10 cars will go to CCJPA and two locomotives will be assigned to Northern California IPR services. The added rail cars with provide more seats to accommodate projected ridership growth on the existing trains. The newer, green locomotives will replace older models, thereby meeting the latest EPA standards, improving system performance and service reliability.
• Sacramento Intermodal Facility Project Phase 2. This phase will continue the planned station modernization upgrades at our busiest station.
• Oakland Maintenance Facility Phase 2. The second portion of facility upgrades will consolidate Amtrak temporary facilities, which are currently scattered around in Oakland and support the Capitol Corridor.

Credit goes to our other partners, Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and Amtrak, for being just as committed as we are in keeping customers on our
trains and off the roads.

Capitol Corridor (March 2011):

• Ridership: 148,198 riders; +10.6% vs. March 2010; +8.8% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,227,701 +13% vs. March 2010; +12% vs. prior YTD
• On-Time Performance: 94%; YTD OTP of 96% (keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation).
• System Operating Ratio: 50% YTD vs. 48% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard

The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.65 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (March 2011):

• Ridership: 230,510 passengers; +6% vs. March 2010, and +6% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +7.7% vs. March 2010, and +9% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for March 2011 81% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 80%)

San Joaquin (March 2011):

• Ridership: 84,210 passengers +5% vs. March 2010, and +3% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +12% vs. March 2010, and +12% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for March 2011: 87% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 91%).

(Download:  February 2011 Performance Report)

The economic rebound and skyrocketing gas prices have helped Capitol Corridor achieve another monthly ridership record.  Ridership in February soared a remarkable 13.5 percent compared to February 2010–125,201 passengers rode Capitol Corridor trains last month compared to the 110,280 customers who rode in February 2010. Revenue rose 16 percent compared to the same period last year.  February 2011 is the best February results in the history of the service surpassing the 124,050 passengers in February 2009 when the economy was peaking and gas prices were at record levels.  On-time performance (OTP) for the Capitol Corridor was a remarkable 96 percent keeping us number one in the nation for over two consecutive years!

Despite February’s inclement winter weather, it was the second month in a row where the Capitol Corridor achieved double-digit results without special discount offers.  These stellar performance results can be attributed to an improved economy, pain at the gas pump and our superior on-time-performance.  When it comes to public transport, customers return when they know they can rely on a system that’s affordable and convenient.

Clearly, our continuing trend in growing ridership demonstrates that the Capitol Corridor is not only reliable, but it’s truly an economical, stress-free environmentally-friendly alternative to driving alone.   Soon we will begin our popular spring promotions, which will attract even more customers to our service which should allow the Capitol Corridor to continue these positive results and match and/or exceed our business plan projections.

In highlighting the Capitol Corridor’s successful February, the combined efforts of our partners deserve to be recognized:  Kudos to Union Pacific Railroad, our host railroad, for its reliable dispatching and to Amtrak, our operating partner, for its dedication and commitment to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.

Capitol Corridor (February 2011):

• Ridership:  125,201 riders; +13.5% vs. February 2010; +8.4% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,009,616; +16% vs. February 2010; +11% vs. prior YTD
• On-Time Performance: 96%; YTD OTP of 96%
  (keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation).
• System Operating Ratio: 49% YTD vs. 46% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard

The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.63 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (February 2011):

• Ridership: 199,785 passengers; +11% vs. February 2010, and +6% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +12% vs. February 2010, and +10% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for February 2011 85%
  (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 79%)

San Joaquin (February 2011):

• Ridership: 74,562 passengers +4% vs. February 2010, and +3% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +12% vs. February 2010, and +12% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for February 2011: 94%
  (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 92%).

(Download:  January 2011 Performance Report)

The Capitol Corridor achieved amazing performance results for January 2011.  Ridership in January soared a remarkable 11 percent compared to January 2010.  A record-breaking 130,863 passengers rode Capitol Corridor trains, making January 2011 ridership and revenue thresholds the highest January results in the history of the service.  Along with the double-digit spike in ridership, revenue rose 13 percent compared to the same period last year.  Finally, the Capitol Corridor’s on-time performance (OTP) was 97 percent—keeping us number one for OTP in the nation.

It’s notable that this was a month when the Capitol Corridor wasn’t offering any special deals or seasonal discounts.  It was simply a period when Northern Californians ditched their cars and rode our trains instead.  Our two-year hold on the national OTP top spot has helped to convince drivers that the Capitol Corridor is a reliable, convenient, cost-effective and stress-free way to travel between Auburn and San Jose and a viable, green alternative to driving alone.  Once we begin our strong advertising campaign and popular discount offers this spring and summer, ridership and revenue will continue to show favorable results this year.

We are certainly grateful to UPRR, our host railroad for its continued reliable dispatching.  We are also relieved that we began 2011 with a significant reduction of trespasser incidents along our corridor as well as reduced bridge and mechanical-related delays.

Also in January, the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) received good news from the California Transportation Commission (CTC).  After years of looking for funding the CCJPA is steps closer to securing wireless internet service on our system.  The CTC approved use of the $3.75 million in cost savings from CCJPA’s track upgrades in Emeryville towards installing a high-quality, wireless network on intercity passenger trains. This decision benefits both the Capitol Corridor and San Joaquin services as both systems share rail fleets (locomotives and passenger coaches). The shared fleet will be equipped to provide free wifi service for passengers as well as secure a platform to transmit and receive wireless communications to support “e-Ticketing,” credit card authorization, on-board passenger information systems and security camera transmission.

Because free wireless is a top amenity requested by passengers, we expect even more customers once the service is launched, which will be rolled-out by the end of this calendar year.

Capitol Corridor (January 2011):

• Ridership:  130,863 riders; +11% vs. January 2010; +7% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,087,269 +13% vs. January 2010; +11% vs. prior YTD
• On-Time Performance: 97%; YTD OTP of 96% (keeping the Capitol Corridor service #1 in the nation)
• System Operating Ratio: 48% YTD vs. 45% in FY10; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard
• The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.62 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (January 2011):

• Ridership: 208,134 passengers; +7% vs. January 2010, and +5% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +12% vs. January 2010, and +9% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for January 2011 80% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 78%)

San Joaquin (January 2011):

• Ridership: 72,395 passengers +2% vs. January 2010, and +3% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +10% vs. January 2010, and +12% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for January 2011: 90% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 91%).

(Download:  December 2010 Performance Report)

In December, Capitol Corridor was given the gifts of impressive ridership, revenue and on-time performance thresholds, ending the calendar year with an abundance of positive performance results.  Ridership was up 5 percent compared to the same period last year, revenue was up 10 percent and the Capitol Corridor’s on-time performance was 97 percent—number one in the nation!  If public transport is an economic indicator, Capitol Corridor’s holiday season (Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve) performance clearly shows the economy is improving.
Our December ridership and revenue results can be attributed to steady holiday season travelers, the improving economy and Raider fans heading to and from Oakland Coliseum to see their team in action.  We owe our on-time performance top spot to UPRR’s reliable dispatching, reduced mechanical-related delays and fewer instances of trespasser incidents along our corridor.

We are grateful for our continued positive results and that our customers chose to ride our trains instead of driving cars.  The gift of increased ridership and revenue demonstrates that our business model and commitment to superior customer service attracts a steady stream of new and loyal passengers on Capitol Corridor trains.

As Capitol Corridor trains begin to fill with new riders we want to ensure that every Capitol Corridor passenger’s trip is a pleasant experience.  Loud raucous music, single riders taking up two or more seats, dirty shoes on seats or folks leaving litter behind are not acceptable rider behavior on the Capitol Corridor trains.  To help Amtrak conductors educate passengers on courteous customer conduct, the CCJPA worked with Amtrak staff to create the “Capitol Corridor Ride Guide and Travel Policies,” a brochure aimed to promote positive passenger etiquette by explaining
Capitol Corridor’s passenger code of conduct as well as common Amtrak on-board policies.  The Ride Guide was distributed to the Capitol Corridor fleet last month, so look for it on board.

I’d like to take this time to congratulate CCJPA Chair Bob Franklin and CCJPA Vice Chair Jim Spering as they take the helm of the CCJPA.  Their two-year term began January 1, 2011.  Chair Franklin was former CCJPA vice chair from 2009 to 2010.  He represents part of Contra Costa and Alameda counties and has the distinction of concurrently serving as the Bay Area Rapid Transit District Board President in 2011 as well.  Chair Franklin has served on both Boards since 2004 and brings a wealth of transportation and green initiatives to the dais.

Vice Chair Spering is fondly known as the “father of Capitol Corridor” as he played a key role in establishing the service. He represents Solano County Board of Supervisors.  His leadership has helped redevelop the City of Suisun, strengthen public transit in Northern California and promote smart growth from Solano County to the Bay Area.

Capitol Corridor (December 2010):

• Ridership:  128,895 riders; +5.1% vs. December 2009; +6.2% vs. prior YTD
• Revenue: $2,223,485, +10.2% vs. 2009; 10.3% vs. prior YTD
• On-Time Performance: 97%, (YTD OTP of 95% keeping the service #1 in the nation)
• System Operating Ratio: 48% YTD vs. 45% in FY09; continued growth in ridership and revenue keep ratio at standard
• The Capitol Corridor route continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.61 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (December 2010):

• Ridership: 197,656 passengers; +4.7% vs. Dec. 2009, and +4.4% ahead of prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +5.8% vs. Dec. 2009, and +8.5% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for Dec. 2010: 69% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance:78%)

San Joaquin (December 2010):

• Ridership: 87,613 passengers +5.6% vs. Dec. 2009, and +3.4% vs. prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +13.3% vs. Dec. 2009, and +12.9% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for Dec. 2010: 94% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance: 91%).

Capitol Corridor is continuing its eight-month streak of positive results.  The first month of Fiscal Year 2011, October 2010, indicates increases in all performance indicators. October ridership was 141,350, up 3.1% versus October 2009 with revenue up a remarkable 7.2% compared to the same period last year; and of course, OTP for the Capitol Corridor continues to lead the nation with 96%, thanks to Union Pacific Railroad’s (UPRR) superior dispatching and a decrease in bridge-related delays. Most impressive was the projected System Operating Ratio in October 2010, which started the fiscal year at a stunning 51%.

Once again, these positive ridership results occurred despite midday track work along the Oakland Embarcadero near the Oakland Jack London Square Station during the last week of October and first week of November and the three furlough Fridays per month for all state employees, which were still in effect in October 2010.

In regards to state funding, on October 8, 2010, California legislators enacted the State Budget Act of 2010. This means funding for California’s three Intercity Passenger Rail (IPR) routes will remain the same as the levels from the prior fiscal year (FY 09-10) and will be provided through the Public Transportation Account (PTA). The Prop 1B Transit Safety/Security allocation will be the same as prior years at $100 million, which equates to $1.9 million for the CCJPA.  In order to save additional funds in the FY 10-11 budget, the Governor reduced the proposed level of Prop 1A High Speed Train Connectivity Funds from $235 million to $101 million, leaving funding for projects that will implement Positive Train Control.  This action eliminated the $4 million in FY 10-11 state matching funds for the CCJPA’s proposed FRA FY2010 HSIPR application for the Fremont reliability projects, which did not receive an award notification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

As you are aware, in August the CCJPA submitted applications for two projects to the FRA as part of the FY2010 HSIPR capital grants program.  Unfortunately, the FRA did not award FY2010 Capital Grant funding to any of the CCJPA-led projects. Subsequently, the FRA briefed CCJPA staff as to the reasons why the program and projects within were not selected. While the application materials were technically eligible, there was scarce funding available for FY2010 ($2.4 billion) and due to the intense competition for the available funding, the FRA felt that the benefits to the program/projects were not as worthwhile or as strong as other applications.  To help make future applications more competitive, the FRA suggested that the CCJPA refine the benefits of the UPRR-partnership projects, such as expanding service to/from Auburn.

In closing, our continued high on-time performance combined with our commitment to superior customer service and our targeted marketing efforts have all helped to jump-start performance gains for FY2011.  We are confident that Capitol Corridor service performance (ridership, revenue, OTP) will continue to show positive results as our economy slowly recovers.

(Download:  October 2010 Performance Report)

Capitol Corridor (Oct. 2010) results:

• Ridership: 141,350 riders; +3.1% vs. October 2009; YTD 141,350 riders, +3.1% vs. FY10 YTD Plan; +1.7 versus FY11 Plan
• Revenue: $2,141,307; +7.2% vs. Oct 2009; 7.2%% vs. prior YTD; -1.3% FY2011 vs. FY10 YTD Plan
• On-Time Performance: 96%, YTD OTP 96% (keeping the service #1 in the nation.)
• System Operating Ratio: 51% YTD vs. 49% in FY09; expenses are offset by revenue and ridership increases.
• The Capitol Corridor route still continues to be third busiest route in the country.

Pacific Surfliners (Oct. 2010):

• Ridership: 219,284 passengers; +1.4% vs. Oct. 2009, and +1.4% ahead of  prior YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +10.2% vs. Oct. 2009, and +10.2% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for Oct. 2010: 83% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance:  83%)

San Joaquin (Oct. 2010):

• Ridership: 76,793 passengers +2.9% vs. Oct. 2009, and +2.9% vs. prior  YTD
• Ticket Revenue only: +15.6% vs. Oct. 2009, and +15.6% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for Oct. 2010: 92% (YTD FY 2011 on-time performance:  92%); 3rd most reliable service in Amtrak system.

Performance continues to improve on the Capitol Corridor compared to monthly results from 2009.  In fact, ridership has increased each of the last 6 months, closing the gap on decreases earlier in the fiscal year.  August 2010 ridership was 138,739, a 5% increase over August 2009.  Revenue mirrored the ridership results with a 3% increase over August 2009.

On-time performance (OTP) remains superior with Capitol Corridor trains arriving at their endpoint stations on-time 96%, continuing to keep the Capitol Corridor as the nation’s OTP leader in the Amtrak system.  The Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) continues its commitment to keeping the Capitol Corridor trains on schedule while managing the increased levels of rail freight traffic as the economy begins its slow recovery.

These positive ridership results occurred even though the Governor reinstated the three furlough Fridays per month in August. A primary reason for the ridership increase can be seen in the gains associated with the two running promotions on the Capitol Corridor – Seniors Ride Half-Off during the midday/mid-weekday trains and Kids Ride Free on Weekends (including Fridays).  We are starting to see increases among the diverse users of the Capitol Corridor trains – students, leisure trippers, business travelers, and youth/school groups. Another key element in retaining and gaining new riders is having the Capitol Corridor be the most reliable Amtrak route in the country.

The superior OTP continues for the Capitol Corridor primarily due to UPRR’s completion of the multi-year tie/track renewal program between San Jose and Auburn in March 2010.   Amtrak mechanical delays are decreasing as well which limits disruptions to the passengers and keeps the OTP above the 90% standard.  CCJPA transportation staff have reconvened a working group with the Coast Guard, UPRR, and Amtrak to better understand the delays associated with Benicia-Martinez drawbridge lifts.

While the deadline of June 30, 2010 for a state budget has passed and there appears to be no date set for adoption or enactment of a state budget for FY 10-11, the current contract for Amtrak’s operation of the Capitol Corridor service expires on September 30, 2010.  The CCJPA has reached agreement with Amtrak on the budget for the FY 10-11 operating contract, which is effective October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011.   While the budget and contract are nearly complete, the FY 11 operating contract cannot be executed without an adopted state budget.

FY2010 FRA HSIPR Capital Grants
The CCJPA prepared and submitted grant applications to FRA on August 5, 2010 through Caltrans Rail.  The due date for applications was August 6, 2010. These FY2010 capital applications were due August 6 and required at least a 20% non-federal match.  The applications prepared by the CCJPA were:

1. Donner Pass Phase 2 Project ($51.3 million with $10.3 million match from UPRR) that will allow an increase of service frequency between Sacramento and Auburn of one additional round trip
2. Reliability improvements in Fremont and Newark ($20 million with $4 million in matching Prop 1A High Speed Train Connectivity funds).  These Fremont-Newark upgrades are part of an incremental program of improvements so that when all projects are complete, service can expand to 11 round trip trains to/from San Jose. FRA anticipates at the moment providing award announcements on these grant applications in late September or October.

In closing, with the economy showing sporadic signs of a slow recovery in Northern California, it is anticipated that Capitol Corridor service performance (ridership, revenue, OTP) should continue its positive results for the remainder of the fiscal year (ending September 30, 2010), which should close the gap between business plan projections and actual results.  The CCJPA will continue to work with our service partners to improve passenger safety, provide superior customer service and finish the fiscal year with strong results in service performance.

(Download:  August 2010 Performance Report)
Capitol Corridor (August 2010):

• Ridership: 138,789 riders; +5.0% vs. Aug. 2009; -1.6% vs. prior YTD; -1.2% vs. FY10 YTD Plan
• Revenue: +3.2% vs. Aug. 2009; +3.2% vs. prior YTD; -4.6% vs. FY10 YTD Plan
• On-Time Performance: 96%, YTD OTP of 93% keeping the service #1 in the nation.
• System Operating Ratio: 47% YTD vs. 47% in FY09; expenses stabilizing with revenue growing in concert with ridership increases.
• The Capitol Corridor route still continues to be third busiest route in the country, with ridership at 1.58 million for the last 12 months

Pacific Surfliners (August 2010):

• Ridership: 261,590 passengers; -0.7% vs. Aug. 2009, and +1.1% ahead of prior YTD; ridership exceeded Amtrak’s premier Acela service in Aug. 2010.
• Ticket Revenue only: +4.6% vs. Aug. 2009, and +6.8% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for Aug. 2010: 68% (YTD FY 2010 on-time performance: 77%)

San Joaquin (August 2010):

• Ridership: 82,992 passengers -1.7% vs. Aug. 2009, and +5.4% vs. prior YTD; solidifying the San Joaquin as the fifth busiest corridor in Amtrak system.
• Ticket Revenue only: +10.7% vs. Aug. 2009, and +12.3% vs. prior YTD
• On-time performance for July 2010: 91% (YTD FY 2010 on-time performance: 91%); right behind Capitol Corridor as 2nd most reliable service in Amtrak system.