Amtrak San Joaquins route rebranded as 'Gold Runner'

The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority's rebrand of California’s intercity passenger-rail service went into effect yesterday. The Amtrak San Joaquins is now known as Gold Runner.

The rebrand builds on the partnership the authority has had with Amtrak in managing and growing the service since 2015, authority officials said in a press release. The Gold Runner identity is designed to align with the authority's long-term expansion plans and California’s broader rail strategy, while fostering stronger connections with neighboring rail services, authority officials said.

The rebrand and service also highlights the Thruway Bus network that connects riders to destinations across the state, they added.

“Gold Runner represents more than a new name, it’s a symbol of our commitment to our passengers and California’s communities,” said David Lipari, the authority's interim executive director. “This new identity captures the energy and optimism of our region while positioning us for the future of passenger rail and intercity bus service.”