SacRT Enhances Accessibility, Improves Rider Experience with New Light Rail Vehicles

The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has launched its new fleet of Siemens S700 low-floor light rail vehicles. The new vehicles allow easier boarding for seniors, people with disabilities, and those with strollers or bicycles.

“This is a historic moment for SacRT and the Sacramento region,” said General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “The launch of our new S700 light rail vehicles reflects our dedication to delivering safe, reliable, and accessible transit options. I want to thank all our partners, elected officials, and the entire SacRT team for their commitment to making this day a reality.”

The first of the new trains began service on the Gold Line, followed by the Green Line. SacRT will begin construction on Blue Line platforms to meet the height requirements of the new low-floor trains in late September 2024. To date, the agency has received funding for a total of 45 new low-floor trains, with a contract to order up to 76 new vehicles.

“Thanks to new funding created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Federal Transit Administration was proud to award more than $45 million dollars to help SacRT buy new trains and the platform improvements to use them,” said Ray Tellis, administrator for FTA Region 9. “FTA is working with SacRT and agencies all over the nation to improve the lives of people who use transit to get to and from their jobs, schools, and other essential destinations.”

One train car can fit up to 187 people sitting and standing. Digital signs inside the trains show the next station and update when approaching stations.

“Here in Sacramento, our innovators like SacRT are working to deliver results for the community. They are driving economic growth throughout the region by connecting neighborhoods and getting Sacramentans where they need to be,” said Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA). “That’s why I have been such a strong advocate to secure federal funding that will help them build Sacramento’s future. I am committed to fighting for the resources our region needs to continue modernizing our transportation network and put us on a path to a cleaner future.”