San Francisco Sun

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, in collaboration with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), has announced a significant $130 million state grant aimed at upgrading Muni's train control system. This funding is part of California’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) and seeks to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the city's metro system.

The initiative focuses on modernizing Muni Metro's train control, which is deemed crucial for improving metro reliability, safety, and service quality. According to Mayor Breed, “Making Muni more reliable, faster, and safer are all key to bringing back riders, supporting workers and neighborhoods, and continuing our long-term growth as we build new housing across our entire City.” She emphasized the importance of efficient transportation for San Francisco's prosperity.

Senator Scott Wiener highlighted the significance of this investment: “Muni has made so much progress — with more reliable, efficient service — and the missing piece is a modernized train control system. This significant state investment will allow Muni to complete this crucial system upgrade.” He also pointed out that securing funds in the face of budget deficits was a collective effort that underscores public transportation's role in economic stability and environmental goals.

The allocated funds will advance Phase 2 of the Train Control Upgrade Project (TCUP), replacing an outdated automatic train control system that has been operational for three decades. The first phase commenced with a $30 million TIRCP grant awarded in July 2022 for on-street rail between Embarcadero and Mission Bay.

SFMTA Director Jeffrey Tumlin remarked on the necessity of these upgrades: “To prevent an extended subway shutdown, it’s critical to replace Muni Metro’s deeply outdated train control system.” The project presents an opportunity to extend modern technology beyond subways into all citywide on-street corridors.

The TCUP aims to implement a Communications-Based Train Control system throughout the network in phases starting from 2025. Aaron Leifer from SFMTA Citizens Advisory Council commented on its importance: “Replacing the SFMTA’s antiquated train control system is a critical project that is long past due.”

Completion timelines have been set with Phase 1 expected by 2028; Phase 2 commencing late 2026 through early 2030; followed by remaining phases concluding by 2032. More details can be found at SFMTA.com/TrainControl.