As gas prices hover near $6 a gallon, some Central Valley travelers are looking for cheaper ways to get around, and a train running through the region is gaining attention as an alternative.
The Gold Runner, a recently rebranded Amtrak San Joaquins line launched under its new name last year, connects cities across the Central Valley, including Modesto, Merced and Fresno, with routes stretching between Sacramento and Bakersfield.
According to the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, which runs the service, the cost difference between driving and taking the train can be significant…