Muni to Become First Transit System in U.S. to Implement All-door Boarding Systemwide

“The improvements we expect to realize from all-door boarding will require a small adjustment on the part of customers, and our Operators will need their cooperation to ensure that everyone boards safely,” said Edward D. Reiskin, SFMTA director of Transportation. “Muni carries nearly the population of the city every day. By keeping our transit moving, we can keep our streets less congested, reduce harmful emissions and improve our quality of life.”

On average, more than 65 customers board Muni buses per hour, which along with New York City is the highest in the country. Heavy passenger volume at many of Muni stops increases the time spent at stops. All-door boarding is expected to reduce this time. Even small savings at each stop can increase the over-all time savings over an entire route, helping Muni stay on schedule and giving customers a faster trip.

In addition to reduced travel times and increased reliability, all-door boarding will clarify Muni’s boarding policy. Although Muni has prohibited rear-door boarding on buses and streetcars in the past, customers have been unofficially boarding through rear doors for many years.

Although Muni Operators have an important role in monitoring fares, in addition to the safe operation of the vehicle and assisting customers, Muni Transit Fare Inspectors have the primary responsibility of enforcing fares. To assist with the transition to all-door boarding, the SFMTA is hiring 10 additional Fare Inspectors. They, along with their colleagues, will be deployed throughout the system and make random checks.