ENThe Future of Light Rail is Here
SacRT is modernizing our light rail system to make future travel easier, safer, and more convenient for our riders. This includes the implementation of new light rail trains, updates to stations and more frequent service to Folsom area stations.
Light Rail Modernization Project
SacRT’s light rail modernization project will provide needed updates to our transit system. It is the biggest project in our history and will take five years to complete. Construction is scheduled to take place through 2027.
SacRT’s light rail line first opened in 1987 and is now aging. Train cars are reaching the end of their useful life and stations need to be updated. Modernizing the light rail system will allow easier access to transit for riders of all abilities. Historically SacRT light rail stations have only accommodated ADA access for the front train car. All other passengers have been required to climb stairs to get into trains.
Light rail modernization will phase out the train cars with stairs and update the stations to allow all riders to board any train car. This project also includes the construction of a passing track in Folsom which allows more frequent light rail service to the Folsom light rail stations.
Project Highlights
The multi-phased improvement program includes three major components:
Low-Floor Trains
- Purchasing a new fleet of low-floor trains that allow passengers to directly enter trains at nearly floor level.
- Passengers using mobility devices may board the train using a passenger deployed bridge plate and ramp assembly.
Station Platform Changes
- Reconfiguring light rail station platforms, in sequence over time, to accommodate the new low-floor trains.
- Station construction work completed on Gold Line stations in summer 2024 and began on the Blue Line in September 2024 and is expected to continue through 2027.
- Requires temporarily closing stations while that station’s platform is modified to meet the height requirements of the new low-floor light rail vehicles.
15-Minute Service
- Added a passing track to operate 15-minute service between Sunrise and Historic Folsom stations, rather than the existing 30-minute service.