Muni to implement double stopping at certain stations

SAN FRANCISCO -- San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency officials are implementing double stopping on Muni Metro trains at certain stations starting this weekend, according to the agency.

Double stopping means two trains will stop in the station at about the same time. The change is meant to ease congestion and allow riders to disembark more quickly, according to the SFMTA.

SFMTA officials said riders have expressed dissatisfaction with having to wait on the track while passengers disembark from the train up ahead.

Double stopping will start Sunday at the Montgomery, Powell and Civic Center stations. The platforms at these stations are long enough to allow double stopping, according to the SFMTA.

SFMTA officials said they will use double stopping only at times of congestion, such as during commute hours.

Double stopping will work by having the first train pull up to the front of the platform and let riders off and on. A second train will pull up behind the first and let riders off, according to the SFMTA.

After the first train departs, the second train will pull up for safety reasons and let riders board. SFMTA officials suggest that riders follow markers on the floor to locate the boarding area.