California Construction News staff writer
San Francisco’s L Taraval transit line was back in service this weekend with upgrades completed over two miles of track and local infrastructure. The enhancements, which will benefit residents, small business owners, and visitors traveling between West Portal and the San Francisco Zoo, were celebrated by city officials and community members alike.
Mayor London Breed called the project a “transformative” investment, highlighting its long-term benefits for the community. “I am proud that we are completing it on time and on budget,” she stated. “We will continue to build on this success for the benefit of the passengers who expect our transit system to be safer, faster, and more reliable.”
The L Taraval line, in service since 1919, is a vital east-west connector serving the Sunset and Parkside neighborhoods. The improvement project, initiated in 2019, included significant upgrades such as enhanced sidewalks for better visibility at pedestrian crossings, new safety boarding islands, and a complete replacement of worn rails and overhead lines. The entire Taraval Street has been repaved, addressing decades of wear.
“Riders will no longer have to exit the train onto the street alongside traffic,” said Jeffrey Tumlin, SFMTA Director of Transportation. “Before this project, nearly five people were hit every year getting on or off the train.”
The project also added new trees, landscaping elements, and 71 upgraded LED streetlights to enhance safety and comfort for both riders and pedestrians. Beginning Sept. 28, Muni riders will board trains at the platform instead of using buses at the curb.
The L Taraval corridor, identified as a high-injury network area, has seen nearly 10 injuries annually prior to the improvements. Local leaders believe the enhancements will significantly reduce these incidents.
“I believe a renaissance is coming to the Sunset,” said Supervisor Joel Engardio. “The return of the L Taraval train will usher in a new era of prosperity for residents, merchants, and tourists alike.”
To support local businesses during construction, Mayor Breed directed $1 million in relief funding for small business owners on Taraval Street. Initiatives like “Take Time for Taraval” and “Shop Dine SF Taraval” have also been launched to promote local commerce.
Albert Chow, head of The People of Parkside Sunset (POPS), expressed gratitude for the project’s completion, saying, “Now Taraval is back in business and better than ever! Come see for yourself!”
In addition to the transit improvements, the community has several upcoming events to celebrate local culture and commerce, including the Sunset Night Market, family movie nights, and cultural festivals.
Transportation Authority Board Chair Rafael Mandelman noted, “Public transit is the backbone of San Francisco’s economy, and this project is a significant step toward a more equitable, accessible, and livable city.”
The L Taraval line’s reopening marks a new chapter for the Sunset District, promising safer travel and renewed vibrancy for local businesses and the community at large.
The mayor and LADWP continue to actively pursue financial resources that will enable the initiation and implementation of innovative projects aimed at moving the city’s clean energy goals and creating a greener Los Angeles for all.
For additional information on this project, visit this link.
