Phase 1: Initial Technology Demonstration
We will install the new Communications-Based Train Control at street level along the Embarcadero and Third Street corridors to test and validate the new system. If any troubleshooting is needed, trains can easily switch into manual mode and operate as they are now with negligible impacts to service. This area has all the on-street challenges we are aiming to improve with modern train control technology and would deliver early project benefits to crucial connections to Caltrain, Mission Bay and Chase Center on the N Judah and T Third.
Phase 2: Subway Technology Upgrade
We will install and activate the new Communications-Based Train Control in the subway alongside the existing Automatic Train Control System. This will allow us to ensure the new Communications-Based Train Control works well in the subway and keep the Automatic Train Control System in place in case temporarily as a redundant system.
Phases 3-7: On-Street Technology Installation
We will roll out the Communications-Based Train Control to all remaining surface branching of the Muni Metro system, line by line.
Project Timeline
We expect the Train Control Upgrade Project to take about eight years, 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.
We expect to begin installing the new train control system in 2026 and complete installation between 2032 and 2034. As the project unfolds, we’ll look for ways to complete work quicker. Installation will take place in phases designed to reduce risk.
The first phase will be the Initial Technology Demonstration. It will take place just outside Embarcadero Station through Evans Street. where operators currently run trains in manual mode and can easily switch back to manual if necessary.
We expect to begin phase two, the Subway Technology Upgrade, in 2027 or 2028. This phase will completely replace the existing system in the subway. Automatic train control is critical for effective train operation in the subway because so many lines converge there.
Phases three to seven will cover On-Street Technology Installation. During this stage, crews will install the new system 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.
We currently anticipate the phase three On-Street Technology Installation to begin with the N Judah in around 2028. The next On-Street Technology Installation phases will complete the T Third corridor through the Bayview, the K Ingleside and M Ocean View in 2029, and the J Church and L Taraval in 2030.
