Capitol Corridor’s Popularity Soars

Service Earns #1 Ranking in the Nation for Customer Satisfaction
OAKLAND, CALIF., May 14, 2008 — The Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) has announced two significant achievements: CCJPA set the highest monthly ridership record in the history of the Capitol Corridor service and customers ranked Capitol Corridor number 1 in the nation in Amtrak’s Customer Satisfaction scores.
“In April, 145,234 riders boarded our trains,” said CCJPA Chair Forrest Williams. “This beats the previous monthly threshold set in May 2007 when 141,789 passengers rode Capitol Corridor. We are only halfway through our fiscal year and our revenue and popularity with the public continue to soar.”
Why the Increase?
Capitol Corridor officials attribute the rise in revenue to increased weekend ridership and passengers taking advantage of Capitol Corridor’s exceptional customer service and affordable fares. “Our improved on-time performance, train frequency, comfortable and stress-free rides make Capitol Corridor a viable transportation alternative to driving,” said CCJPA Managing Director Eugene Skoropowski. “Amtrak gathers the customer satisfaction scores each month for 43 passenger rail corridors nationwide and we are proud to rank number 1 for the second time this year.”
Top Reasons Passengers Ride Capitol Corridor
Supplementing the national rating, Capitol Corridor conducts its own Customer Satisfaction Study twice a year. In the January survey, the top five reasons passengers choose Capitol Corridor include avoiding traffic, enjoying the relaxing ride, saving money, using travel time productively and helping to protect the environment. In addition, 63% of the passengers stated if Capitol Corridor service was not available they would drive alone instead, making the Capitol Corridor a key contributor in reducing automobile-based greenhouse gases and improving regional air quality.