SFMTA Expands Connection Between the Public and Staff Through New Podcast

SFMTA Expands Connection Between the Public and Staff Through New Podcast
By

 

We have taken to the airwaves, or the “digital waves” anyway, with the new SFMTA podcast, Taken with Transportation. 

Taken with Transportation showcases the people and policies that make accessible, equitable transportation possible in San Francisco, and two episodes already have dropped. The first brings listeners along for the ride aboard one of Muni’s hardest working bus lines: the 22 Fillmore. The second profiles several members of our transit car cleaning staff and takes a detailed look at the hard work they do to keep our buses, light rail vehicles and cable cars clean and safe. 

Every episode will feature SFMTA staff members and offer listeners a deeper understanding of the agency. These stories will cover everything from the city’s streets to the SFMTA’s inner workings and offer insight and perspectives that aren’t available anywhere else. We’re passionate about the work we do and want to share that passion and commitment. 

Future episodes will focus on the 150th anniversary of the cable cars, our crossing guard program, transit accessibility, the new shuttle program coming to the Bayview neighborhood, question and answer sessions with our executives, equity and inclusion events and a whole lot more. Whatever the job or project, if we do it at the SFMTA, listeners may well hear about it on the podcast. 

Taken with Transportation is hosted and produced by SFMTA public relations officer and former broadcast journalist Melissa Culross. Culross spent three decades in radio creating audio content, hosting shows and connecting with audiences over the air. You can find Taken with Transportation on our podcast web page (SFMTA.com/Podcast), Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google or wherever you listen. 

 

Published June 30, 2023 at 03:06PM
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SFMTA and City Supervisors Collaborate on Arguello Boulevard Safety Project

SFMTA and City Supervisors Collaborate on Arguello Boulevard Safety Project
By Alejo Alvarado

Safety improvements are coming to the full length of Arguello.

Arguello Boulevard is getting a safety upgrade. The SFMTA has begun work on the Arguello Safety Project to improve safety for everyone, particularly people who ride bicycles on Arguello Boulevard. The project covers Arguello between Golden Gate Park and the Presidio.  

District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan and District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani called for protected bike lanes on Arguello Boulevard after a San Francisco bicyclist was struck and killed on Arguello in the Presidio on April 4, 2023. Supervisors Chan and Stefani each awarded the SFMTA $50,000 of Community Response Team funding to support safety improvements to Arguello Boulevard within city limits. In addition to this $100,000, the SFMTA will put money into the project, and staff will work closely with both Supervisors and the public to develop a comprehensive design that prioritizes safety on Arguello. 

Arguello Boulevard currently has bike lanes in both directions. However, this project will review and potentially propose protected bikeways that are separated from motor vehicle traffic by parked cars, safe-hit posts, transit islands or other physical barriers. These protective elements can make the street safer for bicyclists. 

The entirety of Arguello Boulevard previously was on the High Injury Network, the San Francisco streets where fatal and severe traffic collisions occur most. Safety improvements were made on one section of Arguello in 2017, but the corridor north of Geary Boulevard remains on the HIN. This project will help address the need for further safety improvements and expand safety and connectivity on the citywide bike network while helping the city meet its Vision Zero goals. 

Designs are currently being considered and the outreach/feedback period is expected to begin in Summer 2023. SFMTA staff is also coordinating with the San Francisco County Transportation Authority as that agency concurrently works on a District 1 Multimodal Transportation Study and a District 2 Safety Study and Implementation. 

For more information and updates, please visit the Arguello Safety Project Webpage.

Published June 26, 2023 at 04:25PM
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Celebrate Pride in San Francisco: Looking Back and Moving Forward

Celebrate Pride in San Francisco: Looking Back and Moving Forward
By Enrique Aguilar

SFMTA Pride Parade contingent in 2022.

San Francisco has long been at the forefront of the LGBTQIA+ movement in the United States, and Pride is an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric. On Sunday, June 25, Market Street will come alive during the SF Pride Parade. This year's theme, "Looking Back and Moving Forward," embodies the spirit of reflection, progress and unity. Staff from the SFMTA will be participating in the parade and are ready to come together to celebrate! 

Pride events are important to countless people. They offer a safe and accepting space where folks can express their true selves without fear or judgment. The celebration is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves acceptance and respect, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.  

Pride Month events also acknowledge the contributions and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community throughout history. From the famous Castro district to influential activists and community organizations, San Francisco has a storied history of advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. SF Pride exemplifies this legacy, drawing people from all over the world to celebrate love. As San Francisco prepares for its upcoming Pride events, it's important to reflect on the significance of Pride Month and why it resonates so deeply with so many people. 

You can your support for the LGBTQIA+ community by joining some or all of the San Francisco Pride Weekend events: 

Trans March – Friday, June 23 

Dyke March – Saturday, June 24 

Pride Celebration – Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 

Pride Parade – Sunday, June 25 

Published June 23, 2023 at 11:32AM
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Celebrating LGBTQIA Diversity at the SFMTA

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Diversity at the SFMTA
By Enrique Aguilar

Yves standing in front of a photo of his father at the SFMTA headquarters.

This Pride Month, we are spotlighting some incredible people who work tirelessly behind the scenes at the SFMTA and are part of the agency's LGBTQIA+ community. Their dedication, passion and unique perspectives contribute to the success of our transportation system, making it a true reflection of the diverse customers we serve. 

Yves Michael C. Valdez is an HR Analyst for Employee and Labor Relations and is passionate about helping others. Outside of work, Yves is an avid gardener who has cultivated a collection of dwarf Japanese maples, succulents and orchids. 

Several key motivations led Yves to the SFMTA. He relied on public transit when he moved to San Francisco from the Philippines, and that left a lasting impression on him. The daily interactions and unique experiences of passengers, sometimes filled with drama, comedy and suspense, captured his attention and created a sense of connection with the city’s diverse population. His father's career as a fare inspector at the SFMTA instilled a sense of pride and purpose, inspiring him to follow in his footsteps and contribute to the agency that had provided so much for his family. 

Yves emphasizes the significant impact the SFMTA has had on his life and how it allowed him to leave the private sector for a career in public service. Despite not getting a job with the agency the first time he applied, Yves was eventually hired and embarked on an incredible roller coaster ride of growth and learning as he navigates the nuances of interacting with such a diverse workforce every day. 

Yves has collaborated with colleagues to revamp the tuition reimbursement process for service-critical union members, streamlining the system and ensuring fair access to educational opportunities. His work on preparing and presenting reports to the Civil Service Commission also showcases his expertise during the pressure of such important meetings. 

Yves also has gone above and beyond by taking the initiative to process Public Service Loan Forgiveness for SFMTA employees. He recognizes the stress associated with student loans and sees the importance of supporting his colleagues through this process. 

Beyond his “regular” job duties, smaller, heartfelt moments truly resonate with Yves. Whether assisting a retiree with their Transit pass sticker, helping an employee secure a Family Friendly Workplace Ordinance approval, or simply surprising someone with an afternoon ice cream treat, the gratitude and notes of appreciation he receives from individuals make Yves smile. He believes the richness of public service lies not in financial gain, but in the personal fulfillment derived from positively impacting others' lives. 

Yves’ journey at the SFMTA exemplifies the power of diversity and inclusion. It reminds us that by embracing diversity and inclusion, the agency can connect people physically and in spirit, creating a stronger and more vibrant community for everyone.  

Watch an interview video with Yves to learn more about his experiences, motivations, and proud moments. We’ll also be spotlighting other LGTBTQIA+ staff in an upcoming blog. 

Published June 16, 2023 at 01:53PM
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Celebrating 150 Years of Cable Cars

Celebrating 150 Years of Cable Cars
By Jeanne Brophy

Powell Street Cable Cars Looking Down Powell Street Towards Sutter Street

San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are turning 150 this year, and we’re throwing a party to celebrate! Today the SFMTA is kicking off a series of events that mark this sesquicentennial by offering residents and visitors a chance to learn more about the rich heritage and cultural significance of the cable car. The six-month celebration will take a journey through time and help people rediscover the allure of these cherished, moving city landmarks.

Since their invention, cable cars have woven their way into the fabric of San Francisco, becoming a beloved symbol of the city. As part of the 150th anniversary celebration, unique "ghost" cable cars from vanished lines will make a remarkable return. Discover the craftsmanship behind these engineering marvels with the first-ever public tours of the Muni shop (video) where cable cars are built and maintained.

Beginning July 1 through the end of 2023, we are offering a special $5 California cable car line unlimited day pass that will allow you to hop on and off all day. Take advantage of the all-day, all-Muni pass for only $13. This pass gets you unlimited rides on cable cars, F-line historic streetcars, Muni Metro lines and buses. It allows you to embark on captivating walking tours through the neighborhoods along the cable car lines. 

"This civic celebration of 150 years of cable cars is a fun opportunity for San Franciscans and visitors alike to 'ride backward' while looking forward," said Rick Laubscher, president of the Market Street Railway. 

You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the captivating stories of Chinatown, the Barbary Coast, Fisherman's Wharf, Nob Hill, Russian Hill, Union Square, Polk Gulch and the Financial District. Discover the intriguing histories of these neighborhoods while visiting vibrant shops and delectable restaurants. The experience is a perfect blend of past and present, and you can get there on a cable car!

You’ll want to join the festivities and rediscover the enchantment of San Francisco as the cable cars turn 150. From the inaugural ride on "Big 19" to the captivating walking tours and special passes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Learn more at our cable car anniversary webpage (SFMTA.com/cablecars150)
 

Published June 13, 2023 at 09:15AM
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Towing in San Francisco Explained

Towing in San Francisco Explained
By Melissa Culross

The sight drivers never want to see.

You’re walking to your car, ready to jump in, when you look around and get a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. The car is not where you left it. Have you forgotten where you parked? Has it been stolen?  

And then you realize that it has been towed. 

At the SFMTA, we understand that retrieving a towed vehicle is expensive and inconvenient. You’re charged towing and administration fees, and if your car is at the impound lot for more than four hours, you are responsible for storage costs, as well. However, it’s important to remember that San Francisco streets are a shared public space, not anyone’s private parking spot.  

SFMTA parking control officers may tow vehicles that cause a hazard or block transit lanes, fire hydrants or driveways. Towing when it’s necessary keeps our streets safe and accessible to everyone, but ultimately, the SFMTA wants to help people avoid having their cars towed. That is why we often issue warnings and citations before resorting to towing. We also launched the Text Before Tow program in January 2022 to let people know if their car is about to be towed for certain violations.  

Tow-Fee Waivers for Low-Income and Unhoused People 

We recognize that some vehicle owners may not be able to afford the administration and tow fees, and it would be unfair to burden them further or put them at risk of losing their cars simply because of financial constraints. That's why we have programs that help low-income people retrieve towed vehicles. 

There is a significantly reduced towing fee for eligible low-income people, and storage fees are waived for up to 15 days. This gives people time to gather the necessary funds. In the case of unhoused people, the financial situation can be even more challenging, and we believe in providing support, not making things even harder. This is why, for eligible vehicle owners experiencing homelessness, all administration and tow fees are waived the first time their vehicle is towed. Storage fees also are waived for up to 30 days.  

It is important to note that if a vehicle owned by someone who is unhoused is towed more than once, they receive the same fee and storage waivers as other low-income people. 

Towing Vehicles Used as Housing 

The SFMTA takes a cautious approach when it comes to towing vehicles that may be used as a living space. We understand that towing these vehicles can result in the loss of personal belongings, essential medications, and potentially the homes of those who are already in vulnerable situations. That is why our parking control officers have a policy of exercising restraint when they come upon vehicles that may be inhabited.  

We also work closely with the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing (DHSH) and the Healthy Streets Operations Center (HSOC) to support people living in their vehicles. Our goal is to connect them with health care services and alternative housing options. At the same time, we have an obligation to manage the limited curb space San Francisco has, especially when we receive complaints.  

If a vehicle has been parked in the same spot for an extended period, the owner may receive what traditionally has been a 72-hour warning to move that vehicle. Our parking control officers will determine whether the vehicle is occupied or appears to be used for shelter. If that is the case, they will try to let the owner or occupants know about programs that can help prevent the vehicle from being towed.  

While the usual practice is to tow the vehicle three days after the warning has been issued, the SFMTA currently offers an additional two-day grace period. On top of that, owners can request an additional five days if needed. If a vehicle used as housing eventually is towed, the SFMTA will inform the owner of their rights and offer guidance on how they can retrieve their belongings. 

It’s important to understand that the SFMTA is not the only agency responsible for managing parking in the city. The San Francisco Police Department may also call for a vehicle to be towed. In that case, only the SFPD can authorize the release of the vehicle or grant the owner access. Additionally, state laws may also prevent the SFMTA from releasing a towed vehicle back onto the road. 

The SFMTA has implemented the nation’s most comprehensive program to provide the most vulnerable populations relief from certain costs related to parking citations and towing. We have an obligation to manage the streets, and calling for a tow when it’s warranted helps us do that. 

You can learn more at Waivers for people experiencing homelessness or low-income and reduction for first time tow (SFMTA.com/FirstTow) or Text Before Tow Program (SFMTA.com/TextBeforeTow). 

Published June 12, 2023 at 12:31PM
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June 10 Service Changes Add Muni Service on Connector Routes

June 10 Service Changes Add Muni Service on Connector Routes
By Clive Tsuma

Summer service changes will address crowding and wait times. The 44 O’Shaughnessy frequency will increase from every 12 minutes to every 10 minutes. 

Starting Saturday, June 10, the SFMTA will launch summer Muni service, adding service on several routes to address crowding and wait times and to support increased summer tourism. Several stop changes will be introduced to serve more customers and make service more accessible and reliable. 

These service changes prioritize supporting the city’s economic recovery and matching Muni service more closely to the needs of riders and their communities. We are working to build back our ridership by providing high-quality, reliable service that people can count on and riders are noticing!All of the service changes described here are cost neutral. This means that we are shifting available operators and vehicles to Muni lines that need more service to reduce crowding or provide better connections elsewhere.   

 And,  

More Muni Service and Increased Service Hours 

The following is the complete list of the June 10, 2023, services changes. Please note there may be slight variations between weekdays and weekends and that the details are subject to change.  

For more updates and detailed information please visit SFMTA Muni routes and stops (SFMTA.com/Routes).

1 California: We will be adding one “short line pattern” back to service between Clay and Drumm streets and California Street and Presidio Avenue on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This adds service where demand is highest. Check the head signs for the bus’s destination. 

1X California Express: Service on this route will start earlier at 7:15 a.m. instead of 8 am, in response to customer feedback. Frequency will also increase from every 30 minutes to every 15 minutes in response to customer demand. The express line will also now serve more stops at Cherry, Spruce and Laurel streets and at Presidio Avenue.  

30 Stockton: We’re extending the evening service to the Presidio seven days a week. The last trip from the Presidio will depart from the Sports Basement stop at 8:30 p.m. instead of 8 p.m.  

5 Fulton Owl: We’re extending the route from McAllister and Jones streets to 4th and Market streets, which will provide a connection to Market Street for riders. 

F Market & Wharves: To better support summer tourism, we will add a supplemental Muni bus service on weekend afternoons for the F Market & Wharves between the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf from 2 to 10 p.m. 

28 19th Avenue: We are adding peak service to address crowding on weekdays and weekends. Frequencies will increase from every 10 minutes to every 9 minutes during peak morning service and from every 12 minutes to every 10 minutes during midday. 

38R Geary Rapid: We are increasing service to address crowding on weekdays. Frequency will increase from every 7 minutes to every 6 minutes all day.  

44 O’Shaughnessy: We are increasing service to address crowding on weekdays. The frequency will increase from every 12 minutes to every 10 minutes. 

Bus Stop Changes 

15 Bayview Hunters Point Express: We’re improving access to the shops, banks and supermarket at the Bayview Plaza by moving the northbound bus stop on 3rd at Evans Street from north of Evans to south of Evans.  

27 Bryant: We’re improving accessibility and reliability by upgrading flag stops to bus zones on Leavenworth and Turk, Post, Sutter, Bush and Pine streets, inbound, and on Bush and Leavenworth outbound. We are also adding a new inbound stop on Valencia at 24th street.  

To give us feedback on Muni service write to TellMuni@SFMTA.com.  

Safety on Muni is one of our top priorities. If you experience or witness customer or operator harassment on Muni, report it directly to the SFMTA by calling 311 or using the 311 mobile app or the Muni Feedback form (SFMTA.com/MuniFeedback). 

Related Content:  

Muni Rider Satisfaction the Highest in 10 Years 

2023 Community Survey Results  

Muni Feedback 

Related Projects: 

Safety Equity Initiative 

Related Reports and Documents:  

2023 Community Survey Results 

2023 Community Survey Data Crosstabs 

Published June 08, 2023 at 07:36AM
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New Dashboards Give a Window into Muni Service Changes

New Dashboards Give a Window into Muni Service Changes
By Kate McCarthy

An inspector manages Muni service. New dashboards that help inform changes to Muni service are now live at SFMTA.com/MuniData

Many factors inform our decisions about Muni service adjustments. These include making sure changes to service support the SFMTA’s values, which are economic vitality, environmental stewardship, trust and equity. We also evaluate travel patterns. You can now explore these patterns using the new Muni data dashboards (SFMTA.com/MuniData).

When looking at possible Muni service changes, the first thing we do is turn to the Muni Service Equity Strategy for guidance. Using the Muni Service Equity Strategy, we prioritize providing Muni service along routes that more often serve people of color, members of low-income households, and/or those who are dependent upon transit service, including people with disabilities and seniors.

We also use ridership data to analyze where riders are boarding and where and when there is crowding. This is how we determine if there are opportunities to better align ridership with how often the buses and trains run on specific Muni routes. The Muni data dashboards described below demonstrate some of the different ways ridership data can be sliced for these analyses.

• Systemwide Muni Ridership Recovery - To see how current Muni ridership compares to pre-pandemic ridership, you can view our dashboard that shows Muni system ridership recovery percentage by month from April 2020 to now.
• Muni Ridership Recovery by Route - We also have a view that shows Muni route ridership recovery percentage by month.
• Average Daily Boardings by Route -  This dashboard shows average daily boardings by Muni route and month (pre-pandemic to present). It helps transit planners see where riders are boarding Muni and shifts in ridership patterns. The percentages compare ridership in a given month to the same month in 2019. For example, on the 22 Fillmore, ridership increased to 117% of pre-pandemic levels on weekdays and 147% on weekends after we installed transit lanes, increased frequency and rerouted the line to bring people to their jobs and medical appointments in Mission Bay.
• Percent of Daily Trip Crowding by Route - The Crowding dashboard shows each Muni line and the percentage of its trips that are crowded in a month. SFMTA transit planners look at which Muni lines are crowded so that they can determine whether more service is needed to address it.
• Scheduled Service and Ridership Recovery by Route - This dashboard compares how much a route’s pre-pandemic ridership has recovered to how much service is scheduled on each route to meet ridership demand. This comparison can help identify how demand for different routes has changed since the pandemic. (NOTE: “Scheduled service” is not the same as service that was actually delivered. Because of operator shortages, we weren’t able to deliver all the service that was on the schedule pre-pandemic. This is an area we’ve dramatically improved on in recent years so that we are now delivering service that people can count on.)

Using the data described above – while being guided by the SFMTA’s values and the Muni Service Equity Strategy  – allows us to make informed decisions about adjusting Muni service to best meet San Francisco’s needs. Now with our new Muni Data dashboards, you can see the numbers that help make these decisions.

Check out our new Muni Data dashboards (SFMTA.com/MuniData).

 

Published June 06, 2023 at 10:35AM
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Tracks in the Sky: Overhead Lines Then and Now

Tracks in the Sky: Overhead Lines Then and Now
By Jeremy Menzies

After telling you about the Track Department through the years, this month we take a look back at the Overhead Line Department. The focus of this group is to maintain our “tracks in the sky” which provide electric power to the LRVs, historic streetcars and trolley buses that are critical to keeping San Francisco moving. 

SF Municipal Railway Tower Truck No. 1 on Van Ness Avenue circa 1917. 

The earliest overhead transit power lines were built for San Francisco’s first electric streetcar line, which opened in 1892. As more electric streetcar lines came into service over the years, the electric grid above them expanded into a complex network requiring more power and more maintenance. Within 20 years, electric streetcars provided nearly all transit in the city. 

A complicated overhead line operation at Bryant and Alameda, 1951. The building on the right- built as a power generating plant in 1893 -was home to the Overhead Lines department until just a few years ago. 

In the late 1940s, many of the city’s streetcar lines were replaced by electric trolley buses. While they were able to tap into the existing power supply system, these buses made it necessary to expand the overhead line system further. Unlike streetcars, trolley buses need two wires to run, so all the new trolley routes required new overhead equipment. 

Lineman Ralph Greco making repairs to a section of trolley overhead inside the shop in 1985.

In addition to wires, the department maintains and repairs all the auxiliary equipment that allows streetcars, LRVs and trolley buses to intersect and make turns, including switches, crossings and breakers.  

An Overhead Line Dept. team clears trolley coach wires downed by a fallen tree on Sutter and Stockton Streets during winter storms in January 2023. 

Emergency response has always been another important and difficult part of the job. Without a power line, trolley buses and subway trains are stopped dead in their tracks. So a speedy response is essential. 

Crews installing new wire in the Market Street Subway at Castro Station during a Fix It Week shutdown in 2022. 

Over the years, the department has improved equipment and practices, but inspecting and maintaining the lines remains at the core of its work. Preventative maintenance like stringing new sections of wire in problem areas have played a critical role in improving system reliability. 

So we look to the Overhead Line team to make sure the equipment above keeps everything rolling on the tracks and the streets. 

Published June 01, 2023 at 01:50PM
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