Rail news – San Francisco authority receives first approval for modernization of train control. For rail professionals

On August 6, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) received the first of several approvals needed to modernize its train control system.

As part of an ongoing train control modernization project, the agency plans to overhaul its train control technology, install a modern, communications-based train control system in the subways and streets where Muni trains run, and extend train control to the metro corridors on the streets.

The project is necessary because the current automatic train control system used to control Muni Metro trains in the subway is very outdated, SFMTA officials said in a press release. The current system is also in danger of breaking down and causing a prolonged closure of the subway, they believe.

“Some parts of the system are no longer being manufactured and we will not be able to replace them. Other parts are very limited in their performance,” SFMTA officials said. “Although our staff is very good at keeping the trains running, this is not sustainable.”

A new train control system will help monitor all trains from the start of service to the end of service. It will also ensure that traffic lights come on earlier to give trains the right of way and reduce delays. It will also provide passengers across the city with shorter, smoother journeys with fewer delays, it said.

“In this way, we can help improve reliability, safety and service across the subway system,” SFMTA officials said.

The agency still needs approvals from its board and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors to start the project. Work is expected to be done in short phases from 2025 to 2032, including detailed design, installation, testing and final delivery.