Elevator, Escalator Overhaul Part of BART Legal Settlement

Refurbishing 40 elevators and commencing a major escalator upgrade within downtown San Francisco and beyond over the next 16 years is part of the settlement of a 2017 class-action lawsuit brought by the disabled community against Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), hoodline reports. Set for final approval on April 18, terms also stipulate that when elevators go out of service, BART repair teams must respond within 1 h. The transit agency also plans to provide real-time notifications about vertical-transportation (VT) equipment availability and more through texts and platform announcements. Ensuring fare gates are operational for all users and improving staff disability training are also planned. In addition to VT and other infrastructure improvements, several advocacy groups and individuals are set to receive monetary compensation of US$15,000 and US$7,500, respectively, each.