Josh Koehn

Bay Area commuters could pay higher bridge tolls under a new plan to shore up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/lawmaker-appeals-to-gov-newsom-for-5b-in-transit-funding/">insolvent public transit agencies</a> after the pandemic decimated ridership and the dollars brought in from fares.

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<p>Bay Area commuters could pay higher bridge tolls under a new plan to shore up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/lawmaker-appeals-to-gov-newsom-for-5b-in-transit-funding/">insolvent public transit agencies</a> after the pandemic decimated ridership and the dollars brought in from fares.</p>

State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, announced legislation Monday that would increase bridge tolls in the region—excluding the Golden Gate Bridge, which is independently managed—by $1.50 over a five-year period. He said the temporary increase in tolls from Senate Bill 532 is estimated to raise $900 million and should be seen as an act of “financial self-help” to rescue Bay Area transit agencies, including BART, Muni and Caltrain.

<p>State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, announced legislation Monday that would increase bridge tolls in the region—excluding the Golden Gate Bridge, which is independently managed—by $1.50 over a five-year period. He said the temporary increase in tolls from Senate Bill 532 is estimated to raise $900 million and should be seen as an act of “financial self-help” to rescue Bay Area transit agencies, including BART, Muni and Caltrain.</p>

“The question you have to ask yourself is: Will the Bay Area be a better place or a worse place if we see massive transit service cuts?” Wiener said.

<p>“The question you have to ask yourself is: Will the Bay Area be a better place or a worse place if we see massive transit service cuts?” Wiener said.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-video"><video autoplay controls loop muted poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sequence-01.00_00_00_00.Still008.png" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/WeinerTransportation_INLINE01-1.mp4" playsinline></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Sen. Scott Wiener announces a new transit bill on June 26, 2023. Wiener wants to increase bridge tolls to help fund public transit agencies in the Bay Area.</figcaption></figure>

BART, which relies on fares more than most other transit systems in the state, saw its ridership drop 90% to 95% during the pandemic. The system and others would have collapsed without hundreds of millions of dollars in federal aid.

<p>BART, which relies on fares more than most other transit systems in the state, saw its ridership drop 90% to 95% during the pandemic. The system and others would have collapsed without hundreds of millions of dollars in federal aid.</p>

The toll hikes Wiener and other Democrats are proposing would serve as a temporary fix, he said. He added that a ballot measure will eventually need to be put to the region’s voters to create a sustainable revenue source.

<p>The toll hikes Wiener and other Democrats are proposing would serve as a temporary fix, he said. He added that a ballot measure will eventually need to be put to the region’s voters to create a sustainable revenue source.</p>

Federal funds for Bay Area public transit will run out in the next 12 to 24 months, Wiener said, making the bridge toll hikes necessary. This funding would come on the heels of a $2.5 billion bailout the Legislature included in the upcoming state budget, which is still being finalized.

<p>Federal funds for Bay Area public transit will run out in the next 12 to 24 months, Wiener said, making the bridge toll hikes necessary. This funding would come on the heels of a $2.5 billion bailout the Legislature included in the upcoming state budget, which is still being finalized.</p>

State Sen. Josh Becker, D-Palo Alto, said that the Bay Area “can’t function” without public transit, pointing to the influx of traffic brought on by events like Pride this past weekend in San Francisco.

<p>State Sen. Josh Becker, D-Palo Alto, said that the Bay Area “can’t function” without public transit, pointing to the influx of traffic brought on by events like Pride this past weekend in San Francisco.</p>

However, not every Bay Area lawmaker was ready to hop aboard Wiener’s plan. State Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Orinda, issued a statement saying that local transit agencies have a “trail of broken promises” and should be held more accountable. He called for the Office of Inspector General to have <a href="https://pleasantonweekly.com/news/2023/03/13/bart-officials-broadly-supportive-of-glazer-bill-strengthening-agencys-internal-watchdog-office">broader authority to vet BART’s finances</a>.

<p>However, not every Bay Area lawmaker was ready to hop aboard Wiener’s plan. State Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Orinda, issued a statement saying that local transit agencies have a “trail of broken promises” and should be held more accountable. He called for the Office of Inspector General to have <a href="https://pleasantonweekly.com/news/2023/03/13/bart-officials-broadly-supportive-of-glazer-bill-strengthening-agencys-internal-watchdog-office">broader authority to vet BART’s finances</a>.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/Steve_Glazer/status/1673403568089616387?s=20
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My statement: Transit riders and taxpayers have witnessed first hand the trail of broken promises by advocates for bridge toll increases. We know from hard-learned experience that new funding does not ensure proper oversight and accountability at BART. 1/</p>&mdash; Steve Glazer (@Steve_Glazer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Steve_Glazer/status/1673403568089616387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I recognize and support the need for public transit investment,” Glazer said. “However, I will vigorously oppose any bridge toll increase until, at a minimum, the powers of the Office of Inspector General are fully restored.”

<p>“I recognize and support the need for public transit investment,” Glazer said. “However, I will vigorously oppose any bridge toll increase until, at a minimum, the powers of the Office of Inspector General are fully restored.”</p>

Assemblymember Alex Lee, D-San Jose, who joined Wiener at Monday’s news conference, noted that his own district includes the end of the line for BART in the South Bay, and many people “take for granted” the vital role public transit plays in preventing a “death spiral” of traffic and congestion on roadways.

<p>Assemblymember Alex Lee, D-San Jose, who joined Wiener at Monday’s news conference, noted that his own district includes the end of the line for BART in the South Bay, and many people “take for granted” the vital role public transit plays in preventing a “death spiral” of traffic and congestion on roadways.</p>

“I’m here to tell you, across the world, with very few exceptions, transit agencies have to be subsidized,” Lee said.

<p>“I’m here to tell you, across the world, with very few exceptions, transit agencies have to be subsidized,” Lee said.</p>

Wiener stressed that the fiscal cliff local transit agencies are facing did not come from mismanagement, but rather from the pandemic and its lingering impact as many people continue to work from home.

<p>Wiener stressed that the fiscal cliff local transit agencies are facing did not come from mismanagement, but rather from the pandemic and its lingering impact as many people continue to work from home.</p>

Muni ridership sits at 66% of pre-pandemic levels, Wiener said, while BART has a little over 40% of the riders it had in early 2020. However, he noted that both the San Francisco and regional transit agencies have seen ridership grow by about a third from last year.

<p>Muni ridership sits at 66% of pre-pandemic levels, Wiener said, while BART has a little over 40% of the riders it had in early 2020. However, he noted that both the San Francisco and regional transit agencies have seen ridership grow by about a third from last year.</p>

Wiener’s office said the bill would go into effect at the beginning of next year if it passes out of both chambers of the Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom signs it into law.

<p>Wiener’s office said the bill would go into effect at the beginning of next year if it passes out of both chambers of the Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom signs it into law.</p>

Lawmakers float bridge toll hike to save BART, Muni

Garrett Leahy

Commuting in and out of San Francisco is about to get pricier as Downtown’s woes continue to pile up.

<p>Commuting in and out of San Francisco is about to get pricier as Downtown’s woes continue to pile up.</p>

Starting July 1, several transit-related price hikes will hit Bay Area residents: a toll increase for the Golden Gate Bridge, hiked fares for regional buses and ferries with the <a href="https://www.goldengate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden Gate Transit system</a>, and a statewide tax increase for gas.

<p>Starting July 1, several transit-related price hikes will hit Bay Area residents: a toll increase for the Golden Gate Bridge, hiked fares for regional buses and ferries with the <a href="https://www.goldengate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden Gate Transit system</a>, and a statewide tax increase for gas.</p>

The planned increases are designed to stem public transit budget deficits brought on by federal funds drying up as well as lower ridership during and after Covid. Officials have warned that, without an influx of funding, transit systems could see drastic service cuts.

<p>The planned increases are designed to stem public transit budget deficits brought on by federal funds drying up as well as lower ridership during and after Covid. Officials have warned that, without an influx of funding, transit systems could see drastic service cuts.</p>

These fare increases may also be a harbinger of more price increases to transit, with an already-approved <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/bart-board-fare-parking-fee-hikes-fiscal-cliff/">5.5% BART fare increases</a> in 2024 and 2025 and lawmakers pushing for a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">potential $1.50 toll hike</a> for the Bay Bridge aimed at funding BART.

<p>These fare increases may also be a harbinger of more price increases to transit, with an already-approved <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/bart-board-fare-parking-fee-hikes-fiscal-cliff/">5.5% BART fare increases</a> in 2024 and 2025 and lawmakers pushing for a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">potential $1.50 toll hike</a> for the Bay Bridge aimed at funding BART.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-golden-gate-bridge-toll-hike">Golden Gate Bridge Toll Hike</h2>


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<h2 id="h-golden-gate-bridge-toll-hike">Golden Gate Bridge Toll Hike</h2>

The Golden Gate Bridge toll will <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/ggb-toll-rates-increase-july-1-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase by 35 cents</a> to $8.75 every time you enter San Francisco using FasTrak—or $9.75 without it—and cross its <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/bridge/history-research/bridge-features/color-art-deco-styling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Orange span</a>. Those using pay-as-you-go license plate accounts or one-time payments will pay $8.80 to $9.

<p>The Golden Gate Bridge toll will <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/ggb-toll-rates-increase-july-1-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase by 35 cents</a> to $8.75 every time you enter San Francisco using FasTrak—or $9.75 without it—and cross its <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/bridge/history-research/bridge-features/color-art-deco-styling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Orange span</a>. Those using pay-as-you-go license plate accounts or one-time payments will pay $8.80 to $9.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Screenshot-2023-06-30-at-10.13.04-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-177480"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A table showing the increased toll required to cross the Golden Gate Bridge effective July 1, 2023.  | Golden Gate Bridge Highway &amp; Transportation District</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Screenshot-2023-06-30-at-10.13.04-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-177480"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A table showing the increased toll required to cross the Golden Gate Bridge effective July 1, 2023.  | Golden Gate Bridge Highway &amp; Transportation District</figcaption></figure>

The Golden Gate Bridge toll is currently the <a href="https://www.bayareafastrak.org/en/tolls/toll-locations.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">priciest bridge toll</a> in the Bay Area. It’s used for <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/funding/regional-funding#:~:text=Valley%20Transportation%20Authority.-,Where%20Does%20the%20Money%20Go%3F,transit%20capital%20and%20transit%20operations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">funding public transit</a> and maintaining the famed bridge.

<p>The Golden Gate Bridge toll is currently the <a href="https://www.bayareafastrak.org/en/tolls/toll-locations.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">priciest bridge toll</a> in the Bay Area. It’s used for <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/funding/regional-funding#:~:text=Valley%20Transportation%20Authority.-,Where%20Does%20the%20Money%20Go%3F,transit%20capital%20and%20transit%20operations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">funding public transit</a> and maintaining the famed bridge.</p>

The cost increases are part of a <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/ggt--ggf-regional-fares-increase-july-1-2023/?backurl=/bus/schedules-maps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five-year toll and fare increase plan</a> to address a projected <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/assets/1/6/2023-0126-financecomm-no6-authsettingphfareprogr.pdf?9856" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five-year deficit of $423 million</a>, assuming transit service returns to pre-pandemic levels.

<p>The cost increases are part of a <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/ggt--ggf-regional-fares-increase-july-1-2023/?backurl=/bus/schedules-maps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five-year toll and fare increase plan</a> to address a projected <a href="https://www.goldengate.org/assets/1/6/2023-0126-financecomm-no6-authsettingphfareprogr.pdf?9856" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five-year deficit of $423 million</a>, assuming transit service returns to pre-pandemic levels.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bus-and-ferry-fare-increases">Bus and Ferry Fare Increases</h2>


<h2 id="h-bus-and-ferry-fare-increases">Bus and Ferry Fare Increases</h2>

Commuters taking Golden Gate Transit buses locally within San Francisco currently pay a $4 fare with a Clipper Card, or $5 without one. Fares for Golden Gate Transit ferries currently range from $7.50 and $9 with a Clipper Card, depending on the destination.

<p>Commuters taking Golden Gate Transit buses locally within San Francisco currently pay a $4 fare with a Clipper Card, or $5 without one. Fares for Golden Gate Transit ferries currently range from $7.50 and $9 with a Clipper Card, depending on the destination.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Screenshot-2023-06-30-at-7.53.44-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-177483"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A table showing the increased Golden Gate Transit bus fares effective July 1, 2023. | Golden Gate Bridge Highway &amp; Transportation District</figcaption></figure>


Bus fares will increase 20 cents and ferry fares will increase by 25 cents for Clipper users. Those paying cash to ride Golden Gate Transit buses within San Francisco will see their fares tick up 25 cents to $5.25 starting Saturday. Discounts for Golden Gate Transit bus fares paid with a Clipper Card will remain in effect with the fare hike.

<p>Bus fares will increase 20 cents and ferry fares will increase by 25 cents for Clipper users. Those paying cash to ride Golden Gate Transit buses within San Francisco will see their fares tick up 25 cents to $5.25 starting Saturday. Discounts for Golden Gate Transit bus fares paid with a Clipper Card will remain in effect with the fare hike.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Screenshot-2023-06-30-at-7.53.32-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-177477"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A table showing the increased ferry fares effective July 1, 2023. | Golden Gate Bridge Highway &amp; Transportation District</figcaption></figure>


The gas tax will jump roughly 7%—or <a href="https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/sales-tax-rates-for-fuels.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">another 4 cents per gallon</a>—increasing the total gas tax to almost 58 cents per gallon, according to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

<p>The gas tax will jump roughly 7%—or <a href="https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/sales-tax-rates-for-fuels.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">another 4 cents per gallon</a>—increasing the total gas tax to almost 58 cents per gallon, according to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.</p>

California’s <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/funding/state-funding/sales-tax-gas-tax-funding#:~:text=State%20taxes%20on%20retail%20sales,the%20Bay%20Area%27s%20transit%20network." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gas tax</a> is already <a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=55619#:~:text=In%20January%202023%2C%20state%20taxes,13%20states%20since%20July%202022." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one of the highest in the U.S.</a> and goes to fund maintenance for roads and highways as well as public transit.&nbsp;

<p>California’s <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/funding/state-funding/sales-tax-gas-tax-funding#:~:text=State%20taxes%20on%20retail%20sales,the%20Bay%20Area%27s%20transit%20network." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gas tax</a> is already <a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=55619#:~:text=In%20January%202023%2C%20state%20taxes,13%20states%20since%20July%202022." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one of the highest in the U.S.</a> and goes to fund maintenance for roads and highways as well as public transit.&nbsp;</p>

Here’s why San Francisco commuting just got pricier

Driving over the Golden Gate Bridge&#8217;s International Orange span could get pricier if a March vote passes.

<p>Driving over the Golden Gate Bridge's International Orange span could get pricier if a March vote passes. </p>

<p>Driving over the Golden Gate Bridge&#8217;s International Orange span could get pricier if a March vote passes. </p>

Bridge officials want to hike the toll price to raise more cash as they attempt to navigate a storm in the form of a $220 million budget gap.

<p>Bridge officials want to hike the toll price to raise more cash as they attempt to navigate a storm in the form of a $220 million budget gap.</p>

The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District has four options on the table that would hike tolls annually over the next five years. Still, the toll increase will only raise roughly $100 million, or under half of the funds needed to weather the financial storm, a new report states.

<p>The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District has four options on the table that would hike tolls annually over the next five years. Still, the toll increase will only raise roughly $100 million, or under half of the funds needed to weather the financial storm, a new report states. </p>

It&#8217;s possible officials could scrap all four plans and come up with another option, potentially delaying a rise in toll fees. However, the district has always approved an option in the past without delay, according to a spokesperson.

<p>It's possible officials could scrap all four plans and come up with another option, potentially delaying a rise in toll fees. However, the district has always approved an option in the past without delay, according to a spokesperson. </p>

<p>It&#8217;s possible officials could scrap all four plans and come up with another option, potentially delaying a rise in toll fees. However, the district has always approved an option in the past without delay, according to a spokesperson. </p>

The new five-year toll increase plan comes after a previous five-year hike was approved in 2019. Since then, the Golden Gate Bridge tolls have increased from $7.35 to $8.75 in 2023 for FasTrak users and $8.20 to $9.75 without it, with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/30/san-francisco-commuting-more-expensive/">most recent toll hike</a> happening in June 2023. FasTrak accounts for more than 80% of bridge crossings, according to a spokesperson.

Here&#8217;s why San Francisco commuting just got pricier

<p>The new five-year toll increase plan comes after a previous five-year hike was approved in 2019. Since then, the Golden Gate Bridge tolls have increased from $7.35 to $8.75 in 2023 for FasTrak users and $8.20 to $9.75 without it, with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/30/san-francisco-commuting-more-expensive/">most recent toll hike</a> happening in June 2023. FasTrak accounts for more than 80% of bridge crossings, according to a spokesperson.</p>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-photographer-jake-ricker/">The Yearslong Photo Odyssey of a Man, a Bridge and Countless Strangers</a>

How one photographer’s daily obsession with the Golden Gate Bridge saves lives

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-photographer-jake-ricker/">The Yearslong Photo Odyssey of a Man, a Bridge and Countless Strangers</a></p>

Here are the most costly and least costly toll hike options up for consideration:

<p>Here are the most costly and least costly toll hike options up for consideration:</p>

A $0.50 annual increase, raising $149 million over five years:

<p>A $0.50 annual increase, raising $149 million over five years:</p>


<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>FasTrak users would pay $9.25 starting in July and $11.25 by July 2028.</li>



<li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users, those who register their license plates or set up one-time payments through the district, would pay $9.50 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li>



<li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.25 in July and $12.25 by July 2028.</li>
</ul>


FasTrak users would pay $9.25 starting in July and $11.25 by July 2028.

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<li>FasTrak users would pay $9.25 starting in July and $11.25 by July 2028.</li>

&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users, those who register their license plates or set up one-time payments through the district, would pay $9.50 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.

<li>"Pay-as-You-Go" users, those who register their license plates or set up one-time payments through the district, would pay $9.50 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li>

<li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users, those who register their license plates or set up one-time payments through the district, would pay $9.50 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li>

Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.25 in July and $12.25 by July 2028.

<li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.25 in July and $12.25 by July 2028.</li>

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<ul><li>FasTrak users would pay $9.25 starting in July and $11.25 by July 2028.</li><li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users, those who register their license plates or set up one-time payments through the district, would pay $9.50 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li><li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.25 in July and $12.25 by July 2028.</li></ul>

A $0.35 annual increase, raising $101 million over five years:

<p>A $0.35 annual increase, raising $101 million over five years:</p>


<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>FasTrak users would pay $9.10 starting in July and $10.50 by July 2028.</li>



<li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users would pay $9.35 in July and $10.75 by July 2028.</li>



<li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.10 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li>
</ul>


FasTrak users would pay $9.10 starting in July and $10.50 by July 2028.

<li>FasTrak users would pay $9.10 starting in July and $10.50 by July 2028.</li>

&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users would pay $9.35 in July and $10.75 by July 2028.

<li>"Pay-as-You-Go" users would pay $9.35 in July and $10.75 by July 2028.</li>

<li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users would pay $9.35 in July and $10.75 by July 2028.</li>

Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.10 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.

<li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.10 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li>

<ul><li>FasTrak users would pay $9.10 starting in July and $10.50 by July 2028.</li><li>&#8220;Pay-as-You-Go&#8221; users would pay $9.35 in July and $10.75 by July 2028.</li><li>Those who pay through invoices would pay $10.10 in July and $11.50 by July 2028.</li></ul>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/03/san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-suicide-net-complete/">Golden Gate Bridge’s Suicide Net Is Finally Complete</a>

Golden Gate Bridge&#8217;s suicide net is finally complete

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/03/san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-suicide-net-complete/">Golden Gate Bridge’s Suicide Net Is Finally Complete</a></p>

A suicide deterrent net is seen under construction on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023. The barrier at the bridge is near completion more than a decade after officials approved it. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/ap23355641681751.jpg?w=2500" alt="A net apparatus is installed below big red bridge" class="wp-image-236884"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A suicide deterrent net is seen under construction on the Golden Gate Bridge in December 2023.</figcaption></figure>


Bridge toll revenues are the primary source of funds for the operation and maintenance of the Golden Gate Bridge and the district&#8217;s transit operation, which includes the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/13/san-franciscos-346m-bus-lane-just-got-more-expensive/">Golden Gate Transit bus</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/u-s-grants-22m-to-upgrade-ferry-systems-in-san-francisco-alameda-sausalito/">ferry network</a>.

San Francisco’s $346M bus lane project just got more expensive. It’s been open for 16 months

U.S. grants $22M to upgrade ferry systems in San Francisco, Alameda, Sausalito

<p>Bridge toll revenues are the primary source of funds for the operation and maintenance of the Golden Gate Bridge and the district's transit operation, which includes the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/13/san-franciscos-346m-bus-lane-just-got-more-expensive/">Golden Gate Transit bus</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/u-s-grants-22m-to-upgrade-ferry-systems-in-san-francisco-alameda-sausalito/">ferry network</a>.</p>

<p>Bridge toll revenues are the primary source of funds for the operation and maintenance of the Golden Gate Bridge and the district&#8217;s transit operation, which includes the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/13/san-franciscos-346m-bus-lane-just-got-more-expensive/">Golden Gate Transit bus</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/u-s-grants-22m-to-upgrade-ferry-systems-in-san-francisco-alameda-sausalito/">ferry network</a>.</p>

The budget shortfall is primarily due to fewer bridge crossings than before the pandemic. Currently, the district sees 80% to 85% of pre-Covid traffic, with commute hours down almost 30%, resulting in an annual loss of $25 to $30 million.

<p>The budget shortfall is primarily due to fewer bridge crossings than before the pandemic. Currently, the district sees 80% to 85% of pre-Covid traffic, with commute hours down almost 30%, resulting in an annual loss of $25 to $30 million.</p>

Federal funding is also drying up. The district received one-time federal relief funding during the pandemic to prevent layoffs and maintain transit service, but it will be gone by June, the district said.

<p>Federal funding is also drying up. The district received one-time federal relief funding during the pandemic to prevent layoffs and maintain transit service, but it will be gone by June, the district said.</p>

Ahead of approving the plan, the board will hold two virtual public outreach meetings, one on Feb. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. and another on Feb. 15 from 7 to 8 p.m.

<p>Ahead of approving the plan, the board will hold two virtual public outreach meetings, one on Feb. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. and another on Feb. 15 from 7 to 8 p.m.</p>

Golden Gate Bridge officials are considering four plans to raise toll prices.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/gg-bridge.jpg" alt="A table shows four plans to increase tolls for the Golden Gate Bridge." class="wp-image-244566"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Golden Gate Bridge officials are considering these four plans to raise toll prices.</figcaption></figure>


Here’s how much Golden Gate Bridge’s toll could rise by

George Kelly

All eastbound Bay Bridge lanes reopened early Sunday after a sideshow involving at least half a dozen vehicles drew hundreds of spectators, authorities said.

<p>All eastbound Bay Bridge lanes reopened early Sunday after a sideshow involving at least half a dozen vehicles drew hundreds of spectators, authorities said.</p>

CHP Officer Efrain Jauregui told The Standard that officers received word at 1:56 a.m. of stopped traffic along eastbound lanes east of Yerba Buena Island.&nbsp;

<p>CHP Officer Efrain Jauregui told The Standard that officers received word at 1:56 a.m. of stopped traffic along eastbound lanes east of Yerba Buena Island.&nbsp;</p>

According to videos obtained by CBS Bay Area, several hundred spectators surrounded vehicles who used all lanes just east of the bridge&#8217;s signature tower to perform burnouts and send up clouds of tire smoke.

<p>According to videos obtained by CBS Bay Area, several hundred spectators surrounded vehicles who used all lanes just east of the bridge's signature tower to perform burnouts and send up clouds of tire smoke. </p>

<p>According to videos obtained by CBS Bay Area, several hundred spectators surrounded vehicles who used all lanes just east of the bridge&#8217;s signature tower to perform burnouts and send up clouds of tire smoke. </p>

During the sideshow, several people&nbsp;also set off fireworks that arced high above the bridge&#8217;s signature tower.&nbsp;

<p>During the sideshow, several people&nbsp;also set off fireworks that arced high above the bridge's signature tower.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the sideshow, several people&nbsp;also set off fireworks that arced high above the bridge&#8217;s signature tower.&nbsp;</p>

By 2:22 a.m., all vehicles began dispersing, with residual traffic delays lasting up to a half-hour after. There were no initial reports of arrests, Jauregui said.

<p>By 2:22 a.m., all vehicles began dispersing, with residual traffic delays lasting up to a half-hour after. There were no initial reports of arrests, Jauregui said.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgA4mEe-Fwc
</div></figure>

In a follow-up statement late Sunday, CHP spokesman Mark Andrews told The Standard that officers had first responded to a group of vehicles appearing to stage near the bridge&#8217;s toll plaza. As officers began breaking up the group, they learned of the sideshow happening in eastbound lanes.

<p>In a follow-up statement late Sunday, CHP spokesman Mark Andrews told The Standard that officers had first responded to a group of vehicles appearing to stage near the bridge's toll plaza. As officers began breaking up the group, they learned of the sideshow happening in eastbound lanes.</p>

<p>In a follow-up statement late Sunday, CHP spokesman Mark Andrews told The Standard that officers had first responded to a group of vehicles appearing to stage near the bridge&#8217;s toll plaza. As officers began breaking up the group, they learned of the sideshow happening in eastbound lanes.</p>

Multiple officers from several CHP areas waded into the sideshow, but were slowed by heavy bridge traffic; when a CHP Golden Gate Division helicopter arrived overhead, some sideshow participants aimed laser beams at it, Andrews said.

<p>Multiple officers from several CHP areas waded into the sideshow, but were slowed by heavy bridge traffic; when a CHP Golden Gate Division helicopter arrived overhead, some sideshow participants aimed laser beams at it, Andrews said.</p>

The CHP carried out several stops off the bridge&#8217;s east end, with several people taken into custody after an officer-deployed spike strip helped stop a vehicle that fled pursuit.

<p>The CHP carried out several stops off the bridge's east end, with several people taken into custody after an officer-deployed spike strip helped stop a vehicle that fled pursuit. </p>

<p>The CHP carried out several stops off the bridge&#8217;s east end, with several people taken into custody after an officer-deployed spike strip helped stop a vehicle that fled pursuit. </p>

In a separate stop, CHP officers stopped a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run collision; after learning the vehicle had been reported stolen and had license plates from another vehicle, its driver was arrested.

<p>In a separate stop, CHP officers stopped a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run collision; after learning the vehicle had been reported stolen and had license plates from another vehicle, its driver was arrested.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/MendotaTech/status/1804809539054952667
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/KCBSAMFMTraffic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KCBSAMFMTraffic</a> Sideshow @ Bay Bridge is being cleared. Just got through the mess. Shouldn&#39;t be too long now before it becomes an easier drive into the east bay.</p>&mdash; Edmer Archila (@MendotaTech) <a href="https://twitter.com/MendotaTech/status/1804809539054952667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to <a href="https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/chaos-erupts-in-vallejo-overnight-shooting-fire-and-sideshow/">KRON</a>, Vallejo police said that officers dispatched to a shooting that injured four people and a fire were not able to respond to a sideshow around 3:30 a.m. Sunday at Mini and Lewis Brown drives that ended with a vehicle engulfed in flames.

<p>According to <a href="https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/chaos-erupts-in-vallejo-overnight-shooting-fire-and-sideshow/">KRON</a>, Vallejo police said that officers dispatched to a shooting that injured four people and a fire were not able to respond to a sideshow around 3:30 a.m. Sunday at Mini and Lewis Brown drives that ended with a vehicle engulfed in flames.</p>

The region has seen several similar incidents on successive weekends, beginning most recently with one sideshow <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/09/no-arrests-in-flagrant-sideshows-on-san-francisco-streets/">June 9</a> near San Francisco&#8217;s Ferry Building and another <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/16/2-san-francisco-men-arrested-after-san-mateo-county-sideshow/">June 15</a> in San Mateo County that ended in two San Francisco men&#8217;s arrests.

No arrests in flagrant sideshows on San Francisco streets

2 San Francisco men arrested after San Mateo County sideshow

<p>The region has seen several similar incidents on successive weekends, beginning most recently with one sideshow <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/09/no-arrests-in-flagrant-sideshows-on-san-francisco-streets/">June 9</a> near San Francisco's Ferry Building and another <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/16/2-san-francisco-men-arrested-after-san-mateo-county-sideshow/">June 15</a> in San Mateo County that ended in two San Francisco men's arrests.</p>

<p>The region has seen several similar incidents on successive weekends, beginning most recently with one sideshow <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/09/no-arrests-in-flagrant-sideshows-on-san-francisco-streets/">June 9</a> near San Francisco&#8217;s Ferry Building and another <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/16/2-san-francisco-men-arrested-after-san-mateo-county-sideshow/">June 15</a> in San Mateo County that ended in two San Francisco men&#8217;s arrests.</p>

San Francisco’s ‘soft approach’ to illegal sideshows isn’t working, SFPD critics say

sf-standard/related-post

Weekend Bay Area sideshows leave one injured, block Bay Bridge

sf-standard/related-posts-container

&#8220;The CHP takes these types of reckless and illegal driving exhibitions seriously,&#8221; Andrews said.

<p>"The CHP takes these types of reckless and illegal driving exhibitions seriously," Andrews said. </p>

<p>&#8220;The CHP takes these types of reckless and illegal driving exhibitions seriously,&#8221; Andrews said. </p>

&#8220;Additional follow-up investigation will be conducted in regards to this incident, and appropriate enforcement actions will be taken against any persons or vehicles identified in this illegal and improper behavior.&#8221;

<p>"Additional follow-up investigation will be conducted in regards to this incident, and appropriate enforcement actions will be taken against any persons or vehicles identified in this illegal and improper behavior."</p>

<p>&#8220;Additional follow-up investigation will be conducted in regards to this incident, and appropriate enforcement actions will be taken against any persons or vehicles identified in this illegal and improper behavior.&#8221;</p>

While some critics of the incidents inside law enforcement say there is room to take them on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/13/sideshows-sfpd-enforcement-stunt-driving/">more forcefully</a>, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott has said the department&#8217;s approach to deterrence has focused on disruption of pre-discovered events, as well as post-event investigations leading to arrests, citations and impounded vehicles.

San Francisco&#8217;s &#8216;soft approach&#8217; to illegal sideshows isn&#8217;t working, SFPD critics say

<p>While some critics of the incidents inside law enforcement say there is room to take them on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/13/sideshows-sfpd-enforcement-stunt-driving/">more forcefully</a>, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott has said the department's approach to deterrence has focused on disruption of pre-discovered events, as well as post-event investigations leading to arrests, citations and impounded vehicles.</p>

<p>While some critics of the incidents inside law enforcement say there is room to take them on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/13/sideshows-sfpd-enforcement-stunt-driving/">more forcefully</a>, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott has said the department&#8217;s approach to deterrence has focused on disruption of pre-discovered events, as well as post-event investigations leading to arrests, citations and impounded vehicles.</p>

Bay Bridge sideshow ends with fireworks, noise—and lone arrest

Mike Ege

Tuesday’s San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting came with a surprise twist at the end as a resolution in support of State Senate Bill 532, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/26/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">would raise Bay Area bridge tolls by $1.50 over the next five years to help fund struggling transit agencies</a>, was kicked back to committee.&nbsp;

<p>Tuesday’s San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting came with a surprise twist at the end as a resolution in support of State Senate Bill 532, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/26/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">would raise Bay Area bridge tolls by $1.50 over the next five years to help fund struggling transit agencies</a>, was kicked back to committee.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Shamann Walton, who represents the Bayview and other southeastern neighborhoods, made the motion to send the resolution back to the board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee. Supervisor Connie Chan, who represents the Richmond District, also supported the move.&nbsp;

<p>Supervisor Shamann Walton, who represents the Bayview and other southeastern neighborhoods, made the motion to send the resolution back to the board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee. Supervisor Connie Chan, who represents the Richmond District, also supported the move.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Shamann Walton attends the Board of Supervisors meeting within the Board of Supervisors Chambers at City Hall in San Francisco, Calif. on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/022723BOSRoundup-67-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-132366"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Shamann Walton | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard</figcaption></figure>


The resolution is nonbinding, but Tuesday’s action nevertheless signals pushback against the toll hike bill, sponsored by state Sen. Scott Wiener and transit advocates to save local transit agencies like BART and Muni from a post-Covid “fiscal cliff.”

<p>The resolution is nonbinding, but Tuesday’s action nevertheless signals pushback against the toll hike bill, sponsored by state Sen. Scott Wiener and transit advocates to save local transit agencies like BART and Muni from a post-Covid “fiscal cliff.”</p>

Walton cited the potential negative impacts of a toll hike on low-income people who rely on the bridges to get to jobs or otherwise.&nbsp;

<p>Walton cited the potential negative impacts of a toll hike on low-income people who rely on the bridges to get to jobs or otherwise.&nbsp;</p>

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