Gold Runner Pilot Provides More Affordable Fares

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2023

STOCKTON, CA – To boost train ticket affordability and streamline service, Amtrak® Gold RunnerSM will offer savings for two types of travelers – customers booking early and for those that travel on off-peak trains. Beginning November 1, 2023, and concluding June 30, 2024, the pilot will provide a variety of fares with more flexible and affordable options.

Amtrak’s extensive customer research found that introducing a broader range of fares could better serve riders. The Fare Pilot will provide travelers with new flexible and affordable options allowing time for potential passengers to familiarize themselves with the revamped system. The aim of the pilot is to better meet Gold Runner customer needs.

"Passenger feedback and data-driven insights are pivotal in shaping our services so that we are serving our passengers in the best way possible,” said David Lipari, Deputy Director of Passenger Experience and Communications. “Recent findings from Amtrak underscore the potential to refine our pricing approach for train trips, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of our riders. This new system specifically achieves this goal by building in savings for travelers that book early or travel on off-peak trains.”

Gold Runner currently operates under a Reserved System, where tickets must be purchased before the train's departure. Passengers who opt for both the Thruway Bus and train service are charged a combined fare.

The Gold Runner Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) in alignment with Amtrak initiated a pilot program to assess its potential positive impact on the service. To provide economic relief for riders and drive incremental ridership and revenue, the Gold Runner will continue to offer many of the Every Day and seasonal discounts. About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Gold Runner. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile Gold Runner Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see www.sjjpa.com.

Gold Runner is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with 18 train stations throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area, providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Gold Runner is currently running six daily round-trips. In addition to the train service, Gold Runner Thruway buses provide connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno.

Contact: David Lipari, San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission
E-mail: david@acerail.com
Phone: (209) 851-1626