I recently asked Caltrain if they would consider setting up their new EMU trains with engineer only operation like BART and other transit systems since technology makes it possible for engineers to open doors and GPS systems could set off prerecorded upcoming station announcements a few minutes before arrival. I was told FRA requires conductors for safety purposes to assist with evacuations. BART is not regulated by FRA so they can operate with just one person. Even if Caltrain could get a waiver from the FRA they might not be willing to try to do it for political reasons. maybe the firms they contract with to operate the trains would do it but it would be a nasty political battle just like eliminating cabooses and rear brakeman positions. I had suggested offering conductors the first priority to become engineers since Caltrain will run more frequently but I don't think they have the desire to battle the unions to try and eliminate conductors even with generous buyouts and giving them first rights to be hired as engineers. Caltrain, Metrolink and some other transit operators contract with local police and sheriff's departments to be fare inspectors and keep passengers safe. I guess it's easier for them to write citations instead of collecting fares. I don't think they want people to be allowed to by tickets onboard anyway. Probably more revenue for citations. I think they're about $162 for the first offense