In September 2010, the SANBAG considered options that included Metrolink train service, other types of electrified or diesel trains, and buses. In April 2011, SANBAG announced that it had settled on conventional heavy rail equipment for the service. This would be provided by refurbished ex-Metrolink rolling stock operating on 30-minute peak period headways and hourly off-peak headways. While SANBAG preferred electrified light rail, its $268.1 million cost was over the $250 million limit for the federal Small Starts transit grants that would have been used. The estimated cost of heavy rail service was $198.6 million, which could be paid for using federal transportation grants that were based on population and sales tax revenues.
