Starting during the dot-com boom of the mid-1990s, San Francisco’s population grew, and the existing Metro system began to feel the strain of increased commuter demand. MUNI ordered new light rail cars from Breda in 1991. These would come to be classed as the LRV2 and were first delivered in 1995.
Many issues were fixed with the second batch of Breda cars, now classed as the LRV3. The LRV3s came with several improvements such as more reliable doors, a third brake control unit, and step extensions on the center doors. The fleet was brought up to 151 cars by 2003.
By the 2010s the increasing population and expanding system, MUNI began to request bids for a new, fourth generation of light rail vehicles. The contract was awarded to Siemens for the purchase of 260 cars.
This was the beginning of the end for the Breda cars. Starting in 2021 the MUNI began sending Breda cars off to be scrapped. Today there are less than 30 Breda cars left. MUNI is scrapping two cars a week. The Breda cars have served the People of San Francisco for 30 years and it is now their turn for historic presentation.
We are seeking donations to continue our San Franciso story that dates to 1883! This time with an LRV built in 1998! MUNI is retiring their Breda built LRV3s at a rate of two a week. Our mission is to save #1534 for preservation at the Western Railway Museum. We are seeking $15,000 to move 1534 and all needed spare parts to keep this San Franciso icon running for the enjoyment and education of museum visitors for years to come.
You can learn more about 1534 in this video:
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuVtRKlWmKI&t=2s
You can also support this effort by making a donation online: https://www.wrm.org/support/donate
