At the beginning, six trains a day would carry commuters from the East Bay to the Peninsula, with three going north as far as Millbrae, and three running south to San Jose. They would return in the evening. The debate Both opposition and opportunity arise from the route through the communities of East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and unincorporated North Fair Oaks. Businesses and some residents would welcome one or more new stations in unserved areas of Menlo Park and East Palo Alto. But some residents along the line fiercely oppose having modern commuter trains running through their neighborhoods.
Opponents question whether the number of riders justifies the cost and disruption.
They cite noise and vibration, and ask for grade separations on Marsh and Willow roads to relieve the added congestion caused by train crossings. It's a disservice to the public, not a service. The San Mateo County Grand Jury also criticized the project, in part because it felt San Mateo County was paying more than its fair share, since most users will come from the East Bay. Jim Bigelow, chair of the Menlo Park Chamber of Commerce's Transportation Committee, argued the Peninsula economy needs to give employees from the East Bay better ways to get to work. It's in our best interest to get the workers for San Mateo County businesses over here.