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BART Board Approves 8–1 'Doomsday' Contingency, Warning of Station Closures if Tax Measure Fails

Passage of a November regional sales tax would close a $350–$400 million gap, unlocking a $590 million state loan.

Overview

  • BART’s Alternative Service Plan would close up to 15 of roughly 50 stations starting in mid-to-late 2027 if voters reject the measure.
  • The plan outlines roughly a 63% service reduction, elimination of the red and green lines, and a nightly shutdown at 9 p.m.
  • Agency leaders project 1,100 to 1,200 layoffs alongside higher train fares and increased parking fees under the contingency.
  • Directors used reserves to delay the first station closures by about six months from an earlier January 2027 timeline.
  • BART says the $590 million state loan would be used only if the ballot measure passes, and even with cuts the agency forecasts needing about $150 million more next year to avoid deeper reductions in 2028.