A new poll of likely voters in Santa Clara, San Mateo, and San Francisco counties shows overwhelming approval for Caltrain, with 82% of respondents reporting a favorable view of the transit agency. 

Riders of Caltrain report even stronger approval of the agency, with 84% of occasional riders and 91% of frequent riders reporting a favorable view. 

Support Follows Electrification

The high levels of support for the agency follow the launch of its new high-performance electric trains in September 2024, which offer a better experience for Caltrain riders and provide faster and more frequent service. 

It also comes alongside Caltrain reporting its best ridership numbers since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Caltrain saw ridership grow to more than a half million passengers in December 2024, a 41% increase over December 2023. 

Importantly, respondents recognize the need for additional funding for public transit, with 73% stating there is either some need or a great need for more funding. 

Nearly two-thirds of respondents in San Francisco and San Mateo counties would support a Caltrain funding measure, with support at 65% and 63%, respectively. A majority of voters polled in Santa Clara County also supported a Caltrain measure. 

Caltrain’s high approval and the public’s recognition of the need for increased transit funding are encouraging signs of public support for Caltrain funding. 

Why the Growing Support?

The primary motivations for respondents supporting a measure included increased service, improved regional connectivity, and reduced traffic congestion. 

“The results of this survey reveal that Bay Area residents understand the need to support public transit, and they are seeing the results of the service improvements we have been able to deliver through electrification,” said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard. “We will continue to work with our regional and state partners to explore future revenue options that the public can support so that we can continue to provide the fast, reliable public transportation our riders have come to expect.” 

From Jan. 8 to 23, EMC Research conducted a survey of 1,500 likely voters in Santa Clara, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties to gauge voter sentiment. The poll was presented to Caltrain’s Advocacy and Major Projects Committee.