The first Berkeley station along the east shore was located at the Delaware Street railroad crossing,[3] appearing on timetables as West Berkeley to differentiate it from the then-operating downtown station.

[4] The modern station building was built by the Southern Pacific in 1913, although it has since been turned into a restaurant.

[5][6] Amtrak California service at Berkeley began in 1986 with the twice-daily San Joaquins, which then operated between Oakland and Bakersfield.

San Joaquins service at Berkeley ended in 1993 because of low ridership, but trains continue to pass through the station without stopping.

[8] Additional renovation work included installation of nighttime lighting, benches and landscaping; improved access for people with disabilities; and street repaving and new striping for more efficient access by buses, bicycles, paratransit, shuttles and taxis.