Along the length of the the 1.7-mile Central Subway alignment, less than half of a mile of track will be on the surface, and the 4th and Brannan Station will be the Central Subway’s only surface-level station.  SoMa has flourished in recent years as San Francisco’s technology industry has continued to grow and thrive. In addition to business growth, SoMa is also experiencing substantial residential development, with new apartment buildings recently completed, planned and under construction throughout the neighborhood.  The 4th and Brannan Station will respond to current transportation needs while accommodating the continued growth expected in SoMa. It will also provide convenient connections to the region's rapid-transit networks. The conveniently located station will vastly improve access to jobs, homes and commerce in this vibrant area.