The San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) is celebrating a milestone today, an appropriate occasion as it also marks the 15-year anniversary of the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) service. ACE’s one millionth passenger was onboard ACE 04 last night somewhere between San Jose and Stockton.
The ACE service began on October 19, 1998 with 714 passengers on that first day. Now, 15 years later, the agency just realized a 169,000 net increase – or 20% – in ridership over last year. This increase has brought the total ACE ridership to 1 Million – the most ever in a single year.
What really matters is the passenger experience on the train – we call this
ACE Life. “I arrive at my home well rested, relaxed, and ready to take on the responsibilities as a father and husband,” says passenger Dean DiPietro, who was asked to summarize his commute on ACE as part of the agency’s 15-year anniversary celebration. “No need for any ‘decompression’ time like so many people that drive.”
Also responding was Jeene Villanueva, who says, “Commuting with friends has become a big part of my daily routine. The friendships made and daily conversations on the train are a special part of my life. Seeing the same faces everyday while commuting brings that familiar comfort of a family bond. A fellow commuter lending their ear, and being there as a support system is something that really does help you through life.”
About ACE
The Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) provides passenger rail services from the Central Valley to the Silicon Valley. The train operates weekdays, with stations in San Joaquin County, Alameda County, and Santa Clara County. The
San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission owns and operates the ACE train.