Caltrain: Ridership Could Reach Capacity this Weekend Due to Area Events

Caltrain riders should be prepared for crowded trains this weekend, with some possibly reaching capacity, spokespersons said Friday.

After winning five of six games on their road trip, the Giants will host the Braves at AT&T Park through this weekend. At the same time, the world’s fastest boats - with the world’s fastest sailors at the helms - will be competing in the America’s Cup World Series regatta.

All of this has Caltrain staff gearing up for what they expect to be a heavy weekend, passenger-wise.

"Caltrain will be running the extra service it operates for all home baseball games," Caltrain spokesperson Christine Dunn said in a statement Friday. "However, the rail agency is unable to provide additional extra service to handle anticipated America’s Cup attendees."

Dunn said, those heading to San Francisco this weekend should consider all public transit options for travel alternatives.

Transportation information is available at 511.org/Americascup.

Passengers should also plan their return trips carefully by arriving at the station well before the train’s scheduled departure time. The last train leaves San Francisco on Saturday at 12:01 a.m. and on Sunday at 9:15 p.m.

Caltrain staff remind infrequent riders that Caltrain is a proof-of-payment system. Customers must purchase a ticket from a station vending machine or use a valid Clipper card. Going home, riders can avoid long lines at ticket vending machines by purchasing a Day Pass. 

Also, open alcoholic beverages are prohibited on trains departing from San Francisco beginning at 9 p.m. on game days.

For more information about Caltrain schedules and fares, call 1-800-660-4287 (TTY 650-508-6448), or visit www.caltrain.com.

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