San Francisco to Modernize Muni Metro with $212 Million Contract

The SFMTA is replacing its outdated floppy disk-based control system with advanced technology from Hitachi Rail.

The current Muni Metro control system relies on 5.25-inch floppy disks, a technology from 1998, which poses risks of data degradation and maintenance challenges.
The new contract with Hitachi Rail aims to replace the floppy disk system with a communications-based train control (CBTC) system by 2028.
This upgrade is part of a broader $700 million investment to modernize the Muni Metro, including replacing outdated loop cable systems with Wi-Fi and cellular technology.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors still needs to approve the contract, which includes 20 to 25 years of support services from Hitachi Rail.
Completion of the entire overhaul, including on-street technology installation, is projected for 2033 or 2034.