The VTA light rail system’s facelift is looking good!  The oldest parts of the system are approaching nearly four decades in service, so it was time for an upgrade. VTA scheduled several rehabilitation projects throughout 2024 to keep the rail infrastructure in a state of good repair. The shutdowns focused on repairing and replacing items on the light rail tracks and segments where equipment was approaching the end of its useful life.  Our rail rehab teams have made a tremendous among of progress.

This work was divided into two major ongoing construction efforts that happened simultaneously this year: Rail Rehabilitation and the Overhead Catenary System Rehabilitation.

Rail Rehabilitation

Rail Rehabilitation construction involves the replacement on the system’s trackway. Concurrently, the work windows allow for making improvements to the system. During this year’s planned work, the team was able to accomplish the following:

• Installation of new crossover at Champion light rail station, which is a priority for Super Bowl 60 and FIFA 2026 events to support special event train service.
• Ballast (stones) and tie replacement at 12 light rail stations which totals more than 2,000 wood ties replaced and 2,000 tons of new ballast
• Grade crossing replacement at Lawrence Expressway  
• Track realignment between Tamien and Curtner light rail stations (approx. 1 mile)
• Chynoweth track junction replaced, approx. 2,500’
• Overhead catenary system foundations for new Bonaventura crossover

Overhead Catenary System Rehabilitation

Happening at the same time, the Overhead Catenary System Rehabilitation construction involved replacement of overhead light rail power cables and structural components. During this year’s planned efforts, the team was able to accomplish the following:

• 200,000 FT = 37 miles of contact wire replacement and associated structural components
• 67 disconnect switch replacements

The work requires powering down the system and closing light rail stations. While construction activities took place, light rail service at the impacted stations was temporarily replaced by a “bus bridge” or temporary bus service. 

Since the first shutdown in April, bus operators completed over 8,000 service hours dedicated to providing bus bridges to ensure riders could still travel to their destinations.

We understand the inconvenience that construction causes and we thank our riders for their ongoing patience. Ensuring the light rail system is safe, reliable, and able to move at the intended speed remains a priority. VTA will resume rehabilitation efforts still needed in the future. Stay tuned for updates!