We’re working to modernize Muni Metro — learn what our Train Control Upgrade Project could mean for your trips.
Our Train Control Upgrade Project (TCUP) aims to modernize and grow Muni Metro for decades to come.
Recently, we received the first of four project contract approvals that are required for the city to launch this vital improvement to Muni service.
Learn why Muni Metro needs new train control and how this project will improve your trips.
Our current train control system uses outdated technology. This is one major reason why we need to make changes.
The need for change
The current technology that helps us control Muni Metro trains in the subway is very outdated. It’s also at risk of breaking down.
Some parts of the system are no longer made, and we will no longer be able to replace them. Other parts are very limited in their capabilities.
While our staff are very skilled at keeping trains running, this is not sustainable.
To prevent an extended subway shutdown, it’s critical that we replace the current automatic train control system.
We will take this opportunity to upgrade this system with the latest technology and extend it beyond the subways to cover all the streets where Muni Metro trains run.
That’s why the Train Control Upgrade Project includes both a complete overhaul of technology and an expansion of train control to on-street Metro corridors.
Switching to a new system: how it will help
We plan to install a modern, Communications-Based Train Control System in our subways and our streets where Muni trains run.
This new system will improve on the benefits of automatic train control for several reasons.
It will help us:
- Track all trains from the start and end of service — extending beyond the subways and onto the streets
- Anticipate streetlights earlier to give trains the right of way and reduce delays
- Make the switches between tracks easier
This way, we can help improve reliability, safety and service across the entire Metro system.
You will be able to take shorter, smoother rides with fewer delays, citywide.
To make this possible, we will need to carry out seven phases of work over about eight years.
Starting in phase three of our Train Control Upgrade Project, we’ll bring our new system to the streets where Muni trains run.
Milestones and next steps
On Aug. 6 the project received the first of several approvals for contracts to help staff deliver modern train control successfully.
Once we receive the remaining approvals from the SFMTA Board of Directors and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, we will officially launch the project. At that point, we will design the technology into a bespoke system to Muni specifications and purchase the modern technology components.
We expect the Train Control Upgrade Project to run from 2025 through 2032. This includes detailed design, installation, testing and final delivery.
The project will unfold in seven, relatively short phases that are set to overlap:
- The first phase will be the Initial Technology Demonstration. We will install and test the new Communications-Based Control System at street level to make sure it works as expected.
- The second phase, the Subway Technology Upgrade, will completely replace the existing system in the subway.
- Phases three to seven will cover On-Street Technology Installation on the remaining on-street parts of our Muni Metro routes. This will bring the benefits of train control to streets where Muni trains run — a first for these corridors.
To learn more, visit our Train Control Update Project webpage (SFMTA.com/TrainControl).
You can also sign up for project updates on our Train Control Update Project signup webpage or email TellMuni@SFMTA.com.