Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

If you’re a Muni rider heading downtown, you may have to hoof it — or hop another bus — to get to your final destination.

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If you’re a Muni rider heading downtown, you may have to hoof it — or hop another bus — to get to your final destination.

In lieu of cutting bus lines across the city, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors directed staff in a 3-2 vote to shorten routes for buses headed downtown.

In lieu of cutting bus lines across the city, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors directed staff in a 3-2 vote to shorten routes for buses headed downtown.

From the Western Addition to the Mission, the Tenderloin to the Richmond, bus lines all over San Francisco were previously on the table for service cuts this summer.

From the Western Addition to the Mission, the Tenderloin to the Richmond, bus lines all over San Francisco were previously on the table for service cuts this summer.

Tina Martin, left wears a “Fund Transit” sticker in support of preserving Muni at the SFMTA (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) meeting at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday March 18, 2025.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00111_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two people are wearing transit-themed attire. One has a black shirt with &quot;San Francisco Transit Riders&quot; and buttons; the other wears a blue hoodie featuring ticket designs." class="wp-image-379295"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">During public comment, Muni riders called on the board to protect service.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00111_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two people are wearing transit-themed attire. One has a black shirt with &quot;San Francisco Transit Riders&quot; and buttons; the other wears a blue hoodie featuring ticket designs." class="wp-image-379295"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">During public comment, Muni riders called on the board to protect service.</figcaption></figure>

Under the modified plan greenlit by the board, a bevy of bus lines that previously took riders from the west and south sides into downtown will now terminate at Market Street. The buses will turn around instead of carrying commuters deep into the city’s business and civic centers. Impacted buses include the 6-Haight/Parnassus, the 5-Fulton, the 9-San Bruno, and the 31-Balboa.

Under the modified plan greenlit by the board, a bevy of bus lines that previously took riders from the west and south sides into downtown will now terminate at Market Street. The buses will turn around instead of carrying commuters deep into the city’s business and civic centers. Impacted buses include the 6-Haight/Parnassus, the 5-Fulton, the 9-San Bruno, and the 31-Balboa.

While seemingly minor, the redirects could be significant. Transit officials noted riders tend to stop taking Muni when they have to take more than one bus.

While seemingly minor, the redirects could be significant. Transit officials noted riders tend to stop taking Muni when they have to take more than one bus.

SFMTA Board of Directors Chair Janet Tarlov warned her colleagues that slashing Muni comes with consequences.

SFMTA Board of Directors Chair Janet Tarlov warned her colleagues that slashing Muni comes with consequences.

“If we cut service it makes our job harder,” said Tarlov, who voted in favor of the modified plan. “The popularity of the agency takes a hit. Trust is eroded. These are real concerns that don’t go unnoticed.”

“If we cut service it makes our job harder,” said Tarlov, who voted in favor of the modified plan. “The popularity of the agency takes a hit. Trust is eroded. These are real concerns that don’t go unnoticed.”

Janet Tarlov, Board of Director, listens to public speakers at at the SFMTA (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) meeting discussing potential budget cuts to beginCity Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday March 18, 2025.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00311_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with short gray hair and glasses sits at a conference table with microphones and laptops, wearing a lanyard and a relaxed jacket over the chair." class="wp-image-379290"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board chair Janet Tarlov warned that cutting service has consequences.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00311_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with short gray hair and glasses sits at a conference table with microphones and laptops, wearing a lanyard and a relaxed jacket over the chair." class="wp-image-379290"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board chair Janet Tarlov warned that cutting service has consequences.</figcaption></figure>

The board technically didn’t vote on any budget plans, rather it merely directed staff on how to prepare the budget for future approval. Still, the vote was consequential. Ahead of the board’s meeting, more than a hundred people rallied to protect Muni service on the steps of City Hall. 

The board technically didn’t vote on any budget plans, rather it merely directed staff on how to prepare the budget for future approval. Still, the vote was consequential. Ahead of the board’s meeting, more than a hundred people rallied to protect Muni service on the steps of City Hall.

People of all ages, from children to seniors, chanted “Fund the bus!” One protester, Luca Despota, a 13-year-old, said he worried his grades would be negatively impacted if service cuts slowed his commute to school across the Mission.

People of all ages, from children to seniors, chanted “Fund the bus!” One protester, Luca Despota, a 13-year-old, said he worried his grades would be negatively impacted if service cuts slowed his commute to school across the Mission.

“I’d have to get up earlier, walk, or somehow find another way to get there,” Despota told The Standard.

“I’d have to get up earlier, walk, or somehow find another way to get there,” Despota told The Standard.

Supporters of Muni wait for the SFMTA (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) meeting discussing potential budget cuts to begin at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday March 18, 2025.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00408_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows a packed meeting room with people seated closely together, some holding papers or using phones. A person in a mask is prominent in the middle." class="wp-image-379294"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People of all ages rallied in support of Muni services ahead of the meeting Tuesday.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00408_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows a packed meeting room with people seated closely together, some holding papers or using phones. A person in a mask is prominent in the middle." class="wp-image-379294"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People of all ages rallied in support of Muni services ahead of the meeting Tuesday.</figcaption></figure>

The funding shortfall doesn’t just impact people who ride the bus. Muni’s fiscal cliff threatens San Francisco’s downtown recovery, too. Empty office buildings and subsequent shrinking tax revenue have spurred an $840 million budget deficit in the city’s coffers.&nbsp;

The funding shortfall doesn’t just impact people who ride the bus. Muni’s fiscal cliff threatens San Francisco’s downtown recovery, too. Empty office buildings and subsequent shrinking tax revenue have spurred an $840 million budget deficit in the city’s coffers.&nbsp;

San Francisco needs a functioning Muni system to make downtown thrive, Supervisor Bilal Mahmood said at the rally. Terminating some bus lines at Market could “cut vital direct links” between his district and the downtown, Mahmood said.

San Francisco needs a functioning Muni system to make downtown thrive, Supervisor Bilal Mahmood said at the rally. Terminating some bus lines at Market could “cut vital direct links” between his district and the downtown, Mahmood said.

The city’s transit funding woes are twofold: in the short term SFMTA needs $50 million for the summer, and looking ahead two years, it’s facing a roughly $320 million shortfall. The agency’s Chief Financial Officer Bree Mawhorter said the deficit is partly due to the agency spending big in 2023 based on expected revenue growth from a downtown revival that hasn’t yet materialized.

The city’s transit funding woes are twofold: in the short term SFMTA needs $50 million for the summer, and looking ahead two years, it’s facing a roughly $320 million shortfall. The agency’s Chief Financial Officer Bree Mawhorter said the deficit is partly due to the agency spending big in 2023 based on expected revenue growth from a downtown revival that hasn’t yet materialized.

“We built a hot girl summer budget,” she said. “That hot girl summer prediction didn’t come out quite as we hoped it would.”

“We built a hot girl summer budget,” she said. “That hot girl summer prediction didn’t come out quite as we hoped it would.”

San Francisco might cut these Muni routes to save $50M

sf-standard/related-post

Muni and BART are on life support. Here are the taxes you might pay to save them

SFMTA names new director amid budget crisis, possible service cuts

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SFMTA’s financial woes come as city and state officials scramble to save public transit both in San Francisco and across the region.&nbsp;

SFMTA’s financial woes come as city and state officials scramble to save public transit both in San Francisco and across the region.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, state Sen. Jesse Arreguín and Assemblymember Mark González made a $2 billion state budget request to support transit shortfalls across California. State Sen. Scott Wiener has said he’s in favor of the measure. Gov. Gavin Newsom has not yet commented on the proposal.

Earlier this month, state Sen. Jesse Arreguín and Assemblymember Mark González made a $2 billion state budget request to support transit shortfalls across California. State Sen. Scott Wiener has said he’s in favor of the measure. Gov. Gavin Newsom has not yet commented on the proposal.

San Francisco meanwhile is rallying behind the idea: Supervisor Jackie Fielder authored a statement that, if passed, would record the city&#8217;s support for that budget request. Mayor Daniel Lurie has also written a letter in favor of it.&nbsp;

San Francisco meanwhile is rallying behind the idea: Supervisor Jackie Fielder authored a statement that, if passed, would record the city's support for that budget request. Mayor Daniel Lurie has also written a letter in favor of it.&nbsp;

San Francisco meanwhile is rallying behind the idea: Supervisor Jackie Fielder authored a statement that, if passed, would record the city&#8217;s support for that budget request. Mayor Daniel Lurie has also written a letter in favor of it.&nbsp;

But he’s going to seek funds specifically for San Francisco, too.

But he’s going to seek funds specifically for San Francisco, too.

On Tuesday, Lurie revealed he’s working on a ballot measure to help shore up SFMTA’s budget shortfall. But in his statement on the measure, he also hinted at a need to right-size the agency’s spending.

On Tuesday, Lurie revealed he’s working on a ballot measure to help shore up SFMTA’s budget shortfall. But in his statement on the measure, he also hinted at a need to right-size the agency’s spending.

“The pandemic and challenges downtown hit Muni particularly hard, but the funding crisis we face today had been anticipated for years and necessary changes were not made. That ends now,” Lurie said. “We are actively identifying the necessary reforms to bring a new era of accountability and reliability to Muni.”

“The pandemic and challenges downtown hit Muni particularly hard, but the funding crisis we face today had been anticipated for years and necessary changes were not made. That ends now,” Lurie said. “We are actively identifying the necessary reforms to bring a new era of accountability and reliability to Muni.”

Bilal Mahmood, Board of Supervisor for District 5, speaks in support for preserving Muni operations at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday March 18, 2025.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00365_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man stands at a podium in focus, while a screen shows another man speaking at a meeting, with attendees seated. Captions display on the screen." class="wp-image-379297"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Bilal Mahmood says San Francisco needs a functioning Muni system to make downtown thrive.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8717748561_municuts_00365_tv.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man stands at a podium in focus, while a screen shows another man speaking at a meeting, with attendees seated. Captions display on the screen." class="wp-image-379297"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Bilal Mahmood says San Francisco needs a functioning Muni system to make downtown thrive.</figcaption></figure>

The structural changes needed may be murky.&nbsp;

The structural changes needed may be murky.&nbsp;

Transit use is down compared to pre-pandemic levels but rising. Ridership now sits at 74% of pre-pandemic levels. Perhaps counter-intuitively, a lack of bus ridership isn’t the only factor in Muni’s budget woes. There&#8217;s also a lack of drivers.&nbsp;

Transit use is down compared to pre-pandemic levels but rising. Ridership now sits at 74% of pre-pandemic levels. Perhaps counter-intuitively, a lack of bus ridership isn’t the only factor in Muni’s budget woes. There's also a lack of drivers.&nbsp;

Transit use is down compared to pre-pandemic levels but rising. Ridership now sits at 74% of pre-pandemic levels. Perhaps counter-intuitively, a lack of bus ridership isn’t the only factor in Muni’s budget woes. There&#8217;s also a lack of drivers.&nbsp;

SFMTA’s budget relies heavily on parking garage revenue. Work-from-home policies have reduced the number of people parking in city garages, and it isn’t clear if that revenue will ever return.

SFMTA’s budget relies heavily on parking garage revenue. Work-from-home policies have reduced the number of people parking in city garages, and it isn’t clear if that revenue will ever return.

It isn’t for a lack of trying — the board is even kicking around the idea of developing pickleball courts on top of the lesser-used garages.&nbsp;

It isn’t for a lack of trying — the board is even kicking around the idea of developing pickleball courts on top of the lesser-used garages.&nbsp;

SFMTA has scraped together most of the immediate $50 million shortfall by skipping some bus maintenance, reassigning some staffers who make street signs to other departments, increasing meter and garage rates, and spending less on certain contracts.&nbsp;

SFMTA has scraped together most of the immediate $50 million shortfall by skipping some bus maintenance, reassigning some staffers who make street signs to other departments, increasing meter and garage rates, and spending less on certain contracts.&nbsp;

Board director Steve Heminger told his colleagues they may have dealt with the short-term deficit, but the $320 million shortfall still looms. If Muni sees massive cuts, it could run downtown’s revival down under its wheels.&nbsp;

Board director Steve Heminger told his colleagues they may have dealt with the short-term deficit, but the $320 million shortfall still looms. If Muni sees massive cuts, it could run downtown’s revival down under its wheels.&nbsp;

“This is a small problem,&#8221; Heminger said. &#8220;The one behind it is killer.&#8221;

“This is a small problem," Heminger said. "The one behind it is killer."

“This is a small problem,&#8221; Heminger said. &#8220;The one behind it is killer.&#8221;

Bussing downtown? Good luck. Muni to snip routes to save money

Kevin Truong

A financial life raft to keep the Bay Area’s struggling transit agencies temporarily afloat is on its way. But it comes with a catch: BART and Muni will have to do more to deal with fare evasion and public safety to get the money.&nbsp;

A financial life raft to keep the Bay Area’s struggling transit agencies temporarily afloat is on its way. But it comes with a catch: BART and Muni will have to do more to deal with fare evasion and public safety to get the money.&nbsp;

The Metropolitan Transit Commission is allocating around $747 million in state and regional funds over the next two fiscal years to help local transit agencies facing drastic declines in ridership and revenue. Bay Area transit ridership has recovered to around 66% of pre-Covid levels, according to commission data.&nbsp;

The Metropolitan Transit Commission is allocating around $747 million in state and regional funds over the next two fiscal years to help local transit agencies facing drastic declines in ridership and revenue. Bay Area transit ridership has recovered to around 66% of pre-Covid levels, according to commission data.&nbsp;

The vast majority of the money—around 85%—will go to BART and Muni, which will get $308 million and $352 million, respectively. Other agencies receiving significant dollars include Golden Gate Transit with $41 million, Caltrain with $25.4 million and AC Transit with $32.6 million.

The vast majority of the money—around 85%—will go to BART and Muni, which will get $308 million and $352 million, respectively. Other agencies receiving significant dollars include Golden Gate Transit with $41 million, Caltrain with $25.4 million and AC Transit with $32.6 million.

Each operator will have to approve the funding plan. The commission will submit a finalized proposal to the California State Transportation Agency for approval by the end of the year.&nbsp;

Each operator will have to approve the funding plan. The commission will submit a finalized proposal to the California State Transportation Agency for approval by the end of the year.&nbsp;

State Sen. Scott Wiener, a major champion of providing more local transit funding, said at a select committee meeting Monday:&nbsp;

State Sen. Scott Wiener, a major champion of providing more local transit funding, said at a select committee meeting Monday:&nbsp;

“If we start seeing the unraveling of major transit systems, we will all pay the price.” Wiener had previously proposed an additional bridge toll to temporarily keep the systems running before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=bridge%20toll">shelving the measure</a> earlier this year after concerns were raised about reallocating funds.

“If we start seeing the unraveling of major transit systems, we will all pay the price.” Wiener had previously proposed an additional bridge toll to temporarily keep the systems running before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=bridge%20toll">shelving the measure</a> earlier this year after concerns were raised about reallocating funds.

State Sen. Scott Wiener, center, rides a BART train in San Francisco on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/INLINE02_BARTSafetyTour08222023_-0318.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a gray suit and classes stands with his hand in a strap on a train." class="wp-image-193958"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Sen. Scott Wiener has been a major champion in Sacramento for local transit agencies.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/INLINE02_BARTSafetyTour08222023_-0318.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a gray suit and classes stands with his hand in a strap on a train." class="wp-image-193958"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Sen. Scott Wiener has been a major champion in Sacramento for local transit agencies.</figcaption></figure>

State Sen. Nancy Skinner raised the question of how money from a <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2023-02/RM_3_FAQ_02-07-2023.pdf">voter-approved bridge toll increase</a> approved in 2018 could be reallocated from its initial purpose of expanding capacity in the transit network.&nbsp;

State Sen. Nancy Skinner raised the question of how money from a <a href="https://mtc.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2023-02/RM_3_FAQ_02-07-2023.pdf">voter-approved bridge toll increase</a> approved in 2018 could be reallocated from its initial purpose of expanding capacity in the transit network.&nbsp;

“It just seems that there needs to be a re-look at what was viewed as priority at the point when that was passed and what is priority today,” Skinner said. She added she had faced “great resistance” from the MTC about putting the question back on the ballot.&nbsp;

“It just seems that there needs to be a re-look at what was viewed as priority at the point when that was passed and what is priority today,” Skinner said. She added she had faced “great resistance” from the MTC about putting the question back on the ballot.&nbsp;

Without the additional funds, Muni and BART estimate a funding shortfall of $867 million and $1.05 billion, respectively, over the next five years. The Bay Area-wide cumulative deficit across operators over the same period is projected to add up to nearly $2.7 billion.&nbsp;

Without the additional funds, Muni and BART estimate a funding shortfall of $867 million and $1.05 billion, respectively, over the next five years. The Bay Area-wide cumulative deficit across operators over the same period is projected to add up to nearly $2.7 billion.&nbsp;

Some $300 million in regional transit funds from the Metropolitan Transit Commission will bolster around $447 million earmarked for Bay Area transit funding in the state budget. That money comes with very specific strings attached that are meant to inject accountability into how it is spent and how the agencies operate.&nbsp;

Some $300 million in regional transit funds from the Metropolitan Transit Commission will bolster around $447 million earmarked for Bay Area transit funding in the state budget. That money comes with very specific strings attached that are meant to inject accountability into how it is spent and how the agencies operate.&nbsp;

All operators benefitting from the funds must participate in efforts to better align schedules, fair payment, mapping and wayfinding across various regional transit systems. They are also required to support paratransit access and more streamlined connections between operations.&nbsp;

All operators benefitting from the funds must participate in efforts to better align schedules, fair payment, mapping and wayfinding across various regional transit systems. They are also required to support paratransit access and more streamlined connections between operations.&nbsp;

But BART and Muni have specific measures geared toward improving public safety and combatting the widespread problem of fare evasion.&nbsp;

But BART and Muni have specific measures geared toward improving public safety and combatting the widespread problem of fare evasion.&nbsp;

BART, which has seen <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=lapsed+riders+bart&amp;rlz=1C5GCEM_en&amp;oq=lapsed+riders+bart&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigAdIBCDIyNjJqMWo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">a growing number of lapsed riders</a> point to cleanliness and public safety issues, is required to keep <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/22/senator-scott-wiener-tours-new-bart-fare-gate-location-west-oakland/">implementing</a> more than 700 new fare gates by the end of 2025.&nbsp;

BART unveils preparations for new gates to deter fare evaders

BART, which has seen <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=lapsed+riders+bart&amp;rlz=1C5GCEM_en&amp;oq=lapsed+riders+bart&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigAdIBCDIyNjJqMWo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">a growing number of lapsed riders</a> point to cleanliness and public safety issues, is required to keep <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/22/senator-scott-wiener-tours-new-bart-fare-gate-location-west-oakland/">implementing</a> more than 700 new fare gates by the end of 2025.&nbsp;

Additionally, officials will need to compile a written report on the systems’ programs to increase safety and prevent crises, including recommendations for improvement and where they might coordinate with other agencies.&nbsp;

Additionally, officials will need to compile a written report on the systems’ programs to increase safety and prevent crises, including recommendations for improvement and where they might coordinate with other agencies.&nbsp;

Passengers wait as the 6-Haight/Parnassus Muni  bus arrives on Haight Street, in San Francisco, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Transportation (SFMTA) leadership indicated that barring additional funding, the agency will need to cut up to 20 Muni (San Francisco Municipal Railway) bus system lines starting as early as this summer. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Muni07052023_43.jpg?w=2500" alt="Riders waiting for a bus." class="wp-image-216664"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Muni is slated to get $352 million in state and regional funds to help stave off a forthcoming fiscal cliff.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Muni07052023_43.jpg?w=2500" alt="Riders waiting for a bus." class="wp-image-216664"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Muni is slated to get $352 million in state and regional funds to help stave off a forthcoming fiscal cliff.</figcaption></figure>

Muni is also required to report on similar efforts as well as its fare collection procedures and recommendations to reduce fare dodging.&nbsp;

Muni is also required to report on similar efforts as well as its fare collection procedures and recommendations to reduce fare dodging.&nbsp;

“You asked us to adopt accountability provisions to ensure agencies are prioritizing actions that will help bring back riders,” said the commission&#8217;s Executive Director Andrew Fremier at the committee meeting. He noted that the commission will require operators to demonstrate progress on those accountability measures prior to allocating annual funds.&nbsp;

“You asked us to adopt accountability provisions to ensure agencies are prioritizing actions that will help bring back riders,” said the commission's Executive Director Andrew Fremier at the committee meeting. He noted that the commission will require operators to demonstrate progress on those accountability measures prior to allocating annual funds.&nbsp;

“You asked us to adopt accountability provisions to ensure agencies are prioritizing actions that will help bring back riders,” said the commission&#8217;s Executive Director Andrew Fremier at the committee meeting. He noted that the commission will require operators to demonstrate progress on those accountability measures prior to allocating annual funds.&nbsp;

It should be noted that for local transit agencies—which have already received billions in federal rescue funds to get them through the pandemic without major cuts—the current plan is a short-term fix.

It should be noted that for local transit agencies—which have already received billions in federal rescue funds to get them through the pandemic without major cuts—the current plan is a short-term fix.

Barring a dramatic ridership comeback, the money only serves to stave off until 2026 a forthcoming fiscal cliff and massive service cuts.

Barring a dramatic ridership comeback, the money only serves to stave off until 2026 a forthcoming fiscal cliff and massive service cuts.

For a longer-term solution, the commission is aiming to put the issue in front of voters in the form of a regional transit bond measure planned for 2026. Getting there first requires an extended process involving passing state legislation authorizing the agency to pose a regional ballot measure.&nbsp;

For a longer-term solution, the commission is aiming to put the issue in front of voters in the form of a regional transit bond measure planned for 2026. Getting there first requires an extended process involving passing state legislation authorizing the agency to pose a regional ballot measure.&nbsp;

Bay Area transit gets $747M lifeline, but there’s a catch for BART and Muni

Gabe Greschler

San Francisco’s busy streets run amok, with motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians all trying to outmaneuver one another. It’s a dangerous situation with dire consequences: The city has recorded hundreds of traffic deaths over the past decade.&nbsp;

San Francisco’s busy streets run amok, with motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians all trying to outmaneuver one another. It’s a dangerous situation with dire consequences: The city has recorded hundreds of traffic deaths over the past decade.&nbsp;

And then there are the politics of it all — the constant pedestrian-bicyclist-car-transit battle, a never-ending headache for elected officials.

And then there are the politics of it all — the constant pedestrian-bicyclist-car-transit battle, a never-ending headache for elected officials.

Can the city’s chaotic streets — and political conversation around transit — be fixed? As part of our “Ask the candidates” series, we collected questions from readers about the most pressing issues and presented them to the candidates. We’re publishing the responses leading up to Election Day.&nbsp;

Can the city’s chaotic streets — and political conversation around transit — be fixed? As part of our “Ask the candidates” series, we collected questions from readers about the most pressing issues and presented them to the candidates. We’re publishing the responses leading up to Election Day.&nbsp;

&#8220;I live in the Castro and work in mid-Market; basically, every day it&#8217;s a battle to survive just crossing the street (and no, I don&#8217;t jaywalk). It feels like drivers have become much more reckless. How will you make our streets safe?&#8220;

"I live in the Castro and work in mid-Market; basically, every day it's a battle to survive just crossing the street (and no, I don't jaywalk). It feels like drivers have become much more reckless. How will you make our streets safe?"

&#8220;I live in the Castro and work in mid-Market; basically, every day it&#8217;s a battle to survive just crossing the street (and no, I don&#8217;t jaywalk). It feels like drivers have become much more reckless. How will you make our streets safe?&#8220;

Mayor London Breed listens to other candidates’ answers during a mayoral debate to gain the Fire Union’s endorsement at the Local 798 Union Hall in San Francisco on Thursday, July 18, 2024. The endorsement of the Fire Union is highly coveted for mayoral candidates.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_009a.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman with dark, wavy hair wears a bright orange top and stands against a backdrop featuring fire department emblems. Her expression is serious." class="wp-image-312421"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed says the city&#8217;s infrastructure was built during a time when cars were prioritized.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_009a.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman with dark, wavy hair wears a bright orange top and stands against a backdrop featuring fire department emblems. Her expression is serious." class="wp-image-312421"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed says the city's infrastructure was built during a time when cars were prioritized.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_009a.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman with dark, wavy hair wears a bright orange top and stands against a backdrop featuring fire department emblems. Her expression is serious." class="wp-image-312421"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed says the city&#8217;s infrastructure was built during a time when cars were prioritized.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-london-breed">London Breed</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-london-breed">London Breed</h2>

The mayor said this year that streets need a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/28/san-francisco-street-safety-mayor-vision-zero/">“complete overhaul” after the failure of Vision Zero</a>, a decade-long, multimillion-dollar City Hall plan to eliminate traffic deaths.

With 11 traffic deaths already in 2024, mayor calls for &#8216;complete overhaul&#8217; of city streets

The mayor said this year that streets need a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/28/san-francisco-street-safety-mayor-vision-zero/">“complete overhaul” after the failure of Vision Zero</a>, a decade-long, multimillion-dollar City Hall plan to eliminate traffic deaths.

In her questionnaire for The Standard, Breed said&nbsp;she has advocated for speed cameras across the city and pushed for lowering speed limits. She has also advocated for pedestrian- and bike-friendly spaces, including devoted bike lanes, slow streets, and car-free roads like JFK Promenade.

In her questionnaire for The Standard, Breed said&nbsp;she has advocated for speed cameras across the city and pushed for lowering speed limits. She has also advocated for pedestrian- and bike-friendly spaces, including devoted bike lanes, slow streets, and car-free roads like JFK Promenade.

The city’s infrastructure was “redesigned in the middle part of the last century to prioritize cars at the expense of pedestrians and bicyclists,” Breed wrote, and&nbsp; modernizing it&nbsp;will “take time” and “political will.”&nbsp;

The city’s infrastructure was “redesigned in the middle part of the last century to prioritize cars at the expense of pedestrians and bicyclists,” Breed wrote, and&nbsp; modernizing it&nbsp;will “take time” and “political will.”&nbsp;

“All of this is to say that I care deeply about street safety, and have a record to show for it,” she added. “But we have so much more work to do, and this will continue to be a priority for my administration.”

“All of this is to say that I care deeply about street safety, and have a record to show for it,” she added. “But we have so much more work to do, and this will continue to be a priority for my administration.”

Daniel Lurie addresses the crowd at the second mayoral debate, held at UC Law in San Francisco on Monday, June 17th, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-421.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit and pink tie is speaking on stage, with a blue background and a microphone attached to his jacket." class="wp-image-284221"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Daniel Lurie blames the tension between bicyclists and drivers on the sitting mayor.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-421.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit and pink tie is speaking on stage, with a blue background and a microphone attached to his jacket." class="wp-image-284221"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Daniel Lurie blames the tension between bicyclists and drivers on the sitting mayor.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daniel-lurie">Daniel Lurie</h2>

The nonprofit founder said he envisions automated enforcement for reckless drivers, “truly” protected bike lanes, safer spaces for walking, and the installation of metal bollards.&nbsp;

The nonprofit founder said he envisions automated enforcement for reckless drivers, “truly” protected bike lanes, safer spaces for walking, and the installation of metal bollards.&nbsp;

In his questionnaire, he blamed the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/25/san-francisco-bicycle-coalition-city-hall-politics/">well-documented rift between bicyclists and drivers</a> on the incumbent mayor and pledged to “develop a comprehensive plan that addresses all of our needs and apply safety fixes throughout the city.”

The Bike Coalition got everything it wanted. Now what?

In his questionnaire, he blamed the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/25/san-francisco-bicycle-coalition-city-hall-politics/">well-documented rift between bicyclists and drivers</a> on the incumbent mayor and pledged to “develop a comprehensive plan that addresses all of our needs and apply safety fixes throughout the city.”

Lurie called sufficient public transit “an integral part of the solution.” He added that “transit must be fast, reliable, and safe. Everyone who takes public transportation should feel safe riding.”

Lurie called sufficient public transit “an integral part of the solution.” He added that “transit must be fast, reliable, and safe. Everyone who takes public transportation should feel safe riding.”

Aaron Peskin sits onstage at the second mayoral debate, held at UC Law in San Francisco on Monday, June 17th, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-381.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling man with gray hair and beard, wearing glasses, a blue suit, and tie, sits with a microphone clipped to his jacket." class="wp-image-284218"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin says automated vehicles need to be held accountable for street hazards they pose.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-381.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling man with gray hair and beard, wearing glasses, a blue suit, and tie, sits with a microphone clipped to his jacket." class="wp-image-284218"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin says automated vehicles need to be held accountable for street hazards they pose.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aaron-peskin">Aaron Peskin</h2>

The Board of Supervisors president said that while safer streets and sidewalks are vital, it’s just as important to hold&nbsp;drivers and operators of autonomous vehicles accountable.

The Board of Supervisors president said that while safer streets and sidewalks are vital, it’s just as important to hold&nbsp;drivers and operators of autonomous vehicles accountable.

Peskin called for hiring more police officers to focus on traffic enforcement — and pointed to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/08/sfpd-traffic-enforcement-cost/">declining number of tickets handed out by the SFPD</a> in the last decade. (The number has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/05/sfpd-traffic-violations-triple/">increased</a> in recent months.) Like Breed, Peskin said he helped bring automated speed cameras to the city.

Police seldom write traffic tickets in San Francisco. That’s costing the city millions

Tickets galore: Traffic violations triple with SFPD enforcement push

Peskin called for hiring more police officers to focus on traffic enforcement — and pointed to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/08/sfpd-traffic-enforcement-cost/">declining number of tickets handed out by the SFPD</a> in the last decade. (The number has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/05/sfpd-traffic-violations-triple/">increased</a> in recent months.) Like Breed, Peskin said he helped bring automated speed cameras to the city.

“We need to ensure that anyone who breaks traffic laws — drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians — face consequences,” Peskin wrote in his questionnaire.

“We need to ensure that anyone who breaks traffic laws — drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians — face consequences,” Peskin wrote in his questionnaire.

Former-mayor Mark Farrell during a meet and greet with voters at the blue painted lady on Tuesday July 23, 2024. About 40 people sat inside the blue painted lady for a private town hall event with former-mayor Mark Farrell where he made his pitch for reelection and voters asked questions about zoning, downtown, crime, and other problems plaguing the city.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240723_farrellvisitspaintedladies_-04891.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit jacket gestures with his hand. He appears to be speaking. The background features a chandelier and blurred people." class="wp-image-294762"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell has promised to fire Jeffrey Tumlin, head of the SF Municipal Transportation Agency.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240723_farrellvisitspaintedladies_-04891.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit jacket gestures with his hand. He appears to be speaking. The background features a chandelier and blurred people." class="wp-image-294762"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell has promised to fire Jeffrey Tumlin, head of the SF Municipal Transportation Agency.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mark-farrell">Mark Farrell</h2>

The former&nbsp;interim mayor has caught flak from pedestrians and bicyclists for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">advocating to bring back cars</a> to Market Street but maintains that he supports more bicycle lanes citywide. He pledged to install bollards at intersections that are dangerous for pedestrians.&nbsp;

Mayoral candidate calls for bringing cars back to Market Street

The former&nbsp;interim mayor has caught flak from pedestrians and bicyclists for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">advocating to bring back cars</a> to Market Street but maintains that he supports more bicycle lanes citywide. He pledged to install bollards at intersections that are dangerous for pedestrians.&nbsp;

Farrell blasted Breed for what he describes as “ideology, not pragmatism” when it comes to the SF Municipal Transportation Agency led by Jeffrey Tumlin. If elected, Farrell has committed to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/28/san-francisco-transportation-jeff-tumlin-hot-seat/">firing Tumlin</a>.&nbsp;

Muni boss on the hot seat as San Francisco mayor&#8217;s race heats up

Farrell blasted Breed for what he describes as “ideology, not pragmatism” when it comes to the SF Municipal Transportation Agency led by Jeffrey Tumlin. If elected, Farrell has committed to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/28/san-francisco-transportation-jeff-tumlin-hot-seat/">firing Tumlin</a>.&nbsp;

“I believe we can balance providing more safety infrastructure and projects that promote walking, biking, and public transit while not making it impossible to drive and park in San Francisco,” Farrell wrote in his questionnaire.

“I believe we can balance providing more safety infrastructure and projects that promote walking, biking, and public transit while not making it impossible to drive and park in San Francisco,” Farrell wrote in his questionnaire.

Want to read each candidate’s entire response on street safety? Click <a href="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/mayor-q-street-safety.pdf">here</a>.

Want to read each candidate’s entire response on street safety? Click <a href="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/mayor-q-street-safety.pdf">here</a>.

Crazy driving, road deaths are rampant. SF candidates vow to crack down

Ride-share companies just dropped uber cash to topple a ballot measure meant to fund San Francisco’s Muni system. 

Ride-share companies just dropped uber cash to topple a ballot measure meant to fund San Francisco’s Muni system.

Uber just spent $750,000, while Lyft put up $65,000, on a campaign against Proposition L, “The Community Transit Act,” a ballot initiative that would levy a gross-receipts tax on ride-share companies to help restore transit service across the city. 

Uber just spent $750,000, while Lyft put up $65,000, on a campaign against Proposition L, “The Community Transit Act,” a ballot initiative that would levy a gross-receipts tax on ride-share companies to help restore transit service across the city.

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Search Results for: transit

Bussing downtown? Good luck. Muni to snip routes to save money

Bay Area transit gets $747M lifeline, but there’s a catch for BART and Muni

Crazy driving, road deaths are rampant. SF candidates vow to crack down

Uber, Lyft unleash avalanche of cash to kill ‘fund the bus’ plan

Free rides on Muni this weekend as major events unleash traffic chaos