About Us
Amtrak California is a partnership of Caltrans and Amtrak
In most states, intercity passenger train service is provided solely by Amtrak, with no assistance of any sort from state or local governments. This level of service usually includes only a few long distance trains such as the Coast Starlight or California Zephyr, with perhaps a small number of shorter distance trains operating within the State. This was the situation in California prior to 1976. Since 1976, California has been one of several states which assist Amtrak in order to provide more service than the basic system.
Through Caltrans, the State of California provides capital grants and support for station and track improvements (including signaling), locomotives and cars, connecting Amtrak bus service, and operating assistance for three corridors: The Pacific Surfliners, the San Joaquins and the Capitols.