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A problem with signal cables being torn by sander hoses on the trains is one reason for all the recent Muni Metro delays.

Michael Cabanatuan reports that there was much recrimination as a plan to fill the funding gap was barely worked out last week: 

"With the deadline near, and Muni's financial condition strained, some San Francisco officials feared the agency would be unable to satisfy federal administrators, delaying or endangering the funding of the project itself. On Tuesday, San Francisco County Transportation Authority officials blasted a much sketchier funding plan presented by Muni, expressed doubt that the agency could meet the federal deadline and demanded a more detailed proposal."

According to the story, Mayor Gavin Newsom met with transportation officials to find the $137 million. The result: It'll be coming from high-speed rail bonds and other Muni projects. 

"The plan calls for the agency to use $21 million in funds from the state high-speed rail bond, which included money for transit agencies that would provide connecting service to the fast rail line. Another $85.3 million will come from a different state transportation bond. The final $30.7 million comes from savings or unused funds from five smaller Muni improvement projects, including a radio system replacement, an operators' restroom, construction of a canopy over part of the Muni Metro Geneva yard and construction of the Islais Creek bus maintenance facility."

The Central Subway will run from Third Street to Chinatown. Opponents claim it's a boondoggle, while supporters say it will give Chinatown a needed transit connection.