California Passenger Rail Enters New Phase with Gold Runner Rebrand

The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) has rebranded the Amtrak San Joaquins service to Gold Runner, effective 3 November 2025.

The change marks a new phase in the development of California’s intercity passenger rail and bus services, with a brand that reflects the state’s history and its forward-looking transport ambitions.

Since its establishment, SJJPA has worked to strengthen ridership, improve visibility, and ensure that the service better represents the communities it serves. This has been supported by continued investment from the State of California. The introduction of the Gold Runner brand is now described as a key milestone in achieving these goals.

Amtrak has partnered with SJJPA in the management and operation of the San Joaquins service since 2015. This rebrand builds on that collaboration, with both organisations maintaining their joint commitment to passengers. Amtrak will remain an operational partner, and the two entities will continue to explore co-branding opportunities to maintain a unified travel experience across California’s intercity network.

David Lipari, Interim Executive Director of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority said:

Gold Runner represents more than a new name, it’s a symbol of our commitment to our passengers and California’s communities. This new identity captures the energy and optimism of our region while positioning us for the future of passenger rail and intercity bus service. It reflects the spirit of partnership, innovation, and service that defines everything we do.

The Gold Runner brand has been developed to align with SJJPA’s long-term expansion strategy and the state’s broader rail vision. A significant feature of the service is its Thruway Bus network, which provides connections for more than half of all passengers to destinations throughout California. The unified identity will help SJJPA communicate the full scope of its integrated rail and bus network and create a consistent experience for passengers across its services.

According to SJJPA, the Gold Runner name draws inspiration from the heritage and dynamism of California’s Central Valley, reflecting both regional pride and the network’s role in connecting communities across the state.

A launch event to mark the rebrand will take place on Friday, 14 November 2025, from 11 am to 1 pm at the ACE Rail Maintenance Facility in Stockton. The event will include the unveiling of Gold Runner-branded trains and Thruway buses, remarks from transportation leaders, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially introduce the new brand to the public.