BART Announces Upcoming Train Schedule Changes to Enhance Service

The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system will make adjustments to its train schedule starting January 13. This change is part of an upgrade to a modern train control system aimed at improving coordination with other transit agencies for more efficient service, as announced in a recent press release from the agency.

Alicia Trost, BART's Chief Communications Officer, encourages passengers who utilize public transportation to check their usual train times prior to the schedule changes to avoid any surprises. “Riders often become accustomed to their specific schedules,” Trost mentioned. “As we implement updates, it’s important for them to be aware that train timings may shift."

The schedule adjustments coincide with a collaborative initiative among various Bay Area transit agencies known as the "Big Synch." This effort aims to synchronize timetables, reducing wait times and facilitating smoother transfers between different transit systems, according to Trost.

Transit agencies in the Bay Area have been aligning their schedules biannually, in mid-August and mid-January. Since 2022, the number of agencies participating in full schedule alignment has grown from four to 19. Trost noted, “This coordination minimizes constant schedule changes for riders, allowing them to better understand how their journeys may be affected, especially when transferring between multiple agencies.”

In addition to the schedule updates, BART is transitioning to a modern communications-based control system, replacing the existing fixed block system. The outdated system, in place since BART's inception over 50 years ago, has led to inefficiencies, including unnecessary slowdowns. The new technology will enhance communication between trains and the central computer, enabling more frequent service.

Trost highlighted that the upgrade is expected to particularly benefit high-traffic areas, such as the Transbay Tube and the Oakland Wye junction. With the enhancements, BART anticipates increasing capacity to 28 trains per hour in each direction through the Transbay Tube by 2030, and up to 30 trains per hour by 2032, compared to the current capacity of 24 trains.

The first phase of track updates will occur between Millbrae and Colma. As part of these upgrades, Yellow Line service will temporarily end at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) instead of Millbrae while construction crews work nightly after 9 p.m. Trains will run every 15 minutes between Millbrae station and SFO during this time. Passengers will also be able to transfer to a Yellow Line train to complete their journey.

Additionally, after midnight, the last four Yellow Line trains to SFO will continue to Millbrae without requiring a transfer. Trost indicated that this updated schedule will remain in effect for several years, although no definitive timeline for the conclusion of construction has been established.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided herein is not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be construed as financial advice. Please consult your financial advisor for personal financial advice. All information is provided as of January 10, 2025, and reflects the latest regulations from relevant authorities such as FINRA, IIROC, FTC, and SEC.

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