SAN FRANCISCO'S MUNI METRO, A LIGHT-RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM

This paper describes improvements that are being made in San Francisco's light-rail (streetcar) transit system, the Muni Metro. The new dual-level Market Street subway accommodates Muni on the upper level and the Bay Area Rapid Transit System on the lower level. The new articulated light-rail vehicles, designed to serve the needs of both San Francisco and Boston, are described. In order to provide facilities for storage and maintenance of these vehicles, a new rail center is being constructed. The design of this facility was a particular challenge because of constraints imposed by the small size of the urban site used. Virtually all surface tracks in the city are being replaced. Muni had hoped to develop special transit rights-of-way in conjunction with the rerailing projects but encountered a political snag in the process. The power supply system that provides Muni's electrical power is unique, and the facilities it uses are also being upgraded. Finally, several route extensions contemplated by Muni are described. The new Muni Metro system is scheduled to be in full operation in late 1979. /Author/