The Muni Metro Capacity Study is a key step in the Muni Metro Modernization program that will identify how much more rail capacity we need, in what timeframe and where. It builds on the vision in the ConnectSF Transit Strategy. The Study aims to answer the following critical planning questions:
- What does the high-capacity Muni Metro system of the future look like?
- How does the high-capacity Muni Metro system of the future work?
- What infrastructure projects and service will achieve a high-capacity Muni Metro system?
- What is our timeline for making these transformative improvements?
SFMTA staff will work with Muni Metro Community Working Group members to discuss and consider the strategies and tradeoffs presented in the Study, and how best to balance these to achieve Muni Metro Modernization goals. With this, staff will develop a comprehensive long-term strategy for expanding the capacity of the Muni Metro system over the coming decades.
For example, the study may recommend implementing some of the following strategies over the next 10 to 20 years:
- Longer 3- or 4-car trains on the surface for the N Judah or M Ocean View would expand transit capacity to keep pace with future growth, but may require lengthening station platforms, consolidating stops, and/or closing intersections.
- Service restructuring to remove one or more 1- to 2-car Muni Metro rail lines from the subway would allow their scheduled slots in the subway to be used by 3- to 4-car trains to alleviate crowding, but some riders would need to transfer.
- Transit signal preemption for Muni Metro would keep transit moving quickly and reliably, but people walking, biking and driving may have to wait while trains pass.
- Additional transit lanes for Muni Metro on the surface would ensure that trains do not become stuck in traffic but would require repurposing street space that may be currently in use as general travel lanes or parking.
After the Muni Metro Capacity Study is complete, individual projects identified through this effort would undergo broader public engagement efforts.