Does Caltrain plan to offer WiFi service?
In 2006, Caltrain conducted a successful Proof of Concept for WiMAX-based broadband wireless internet service along 16 miles of track between Palo Alto and Millbrae. This test proved that Caltrain was able to run consistent broadband service during that whole stretch. Caltrain was the first rail agency in the U.S. to accomplish this. Since then, Caltrain has conducted a competitive bidding process to find a vendor to install and operate WiFi service. In 2007, two proposals were received, neither of which met Caltrains criteria. At this point, the project is on hold indefinitely. Plans are to incorporate WiFi capabilities into a larger, system-wide communication project in the future. This project will use microwave technology to operate Caltrains signal system. A WiFi system could piggyback onto this communication system, a cost-efficient solution which would also provide high-quality service.
