Expansion Planning

Expansion & Capacity Enhancement 

The System Development Policy (formerly known as the System Expansion Policy), adopted in September 2023, guides how BART will consistently evaluate proposed new line extensions and stations (including infill stations). Any major new system development project must provide clear, measurable benefits to the system and its riders, as well as demonstrate the ability to address the region’s goals to grow transit ridership, address the climate emergency, improve mobility, and ensure equitable outcomes.

Any project must support the System Development Policy goals of:

  • Supporting regional livability, sustainability, equity and prosperity;
  • Serving communities and improving rider experience; and  
  • Supporting stewardship of the BART District and taxpayer investment.

The Policy includes a “business case” process to demonstrate reasoning and justification for initiating a project, and how the project supports BART’s vision and mission. The following diagram shows the process for how new stations or line extensions are considered (see the adopted policy and this staff presentation for more details).

System Development Policy Simplified Diagram
The 2023 System Development Policy supersedes the 1999 System Expansion Policy.

New Transbay Rail Crossing (Link21)

BART and the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority have partnered to advance the Link21 program of system improvements that will transform the 21-county Northern California Megaregion’s passenger rail network into a faster, more integrated system, providing a safe, efficient, equitable, and affordable means of travel for all types of trips. Link21 will include a new transbay rail crossing between Oakland and San Francisco that will increase BART’s transbay capacity and connect Regional Rail service across the Bay. 

Learn more about Link21


Active Projects

Silicon Valley Extension

 

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is managing a project to extend BART to Silicon Valley. The 16-mile extension will provide a fast, reliable and convenient alternative to driving in two of the most congested highway corridors in the Bay Area.

Learn more about Silicon Valley Extension

Irvington Station as part of Warm Springs Extension 

BART is currently designing an infill station within the Irvington district of Fremont.  The station will be located approximately halfway in between Fremont Station and Warm Springs/South Fremont Station.  Efforts to date have been funded by ACTC Measure BB and MTC RM2.

Learn more about the future Irvington Station


Completed Studies and Projects

I-80 Corridor - wBART (2017)  

Jack London Feasibility Study (2004) 

30th Street Infill Station Study (2003)

BART Contra Costa-Solano I-80 Rail Feasibility Study (2003)

BART to Livermore 

East Contra Costa BART - eBART now called BART to Antioch

Warm Springs Extension