SFGov Watch

1. Valencia Street Bikeway Debate: A Heated Exchange
   1. Center-Running vs. Side-Running Bike Lane
   2. Merchant Concerns and Parklet Relocations
2. Post-Election Updates and Muni Funding Woes
   1. Impact of Passed and Failed Measures
   2. Funding Challenges for Muni and BART
3. 16th Street Transit Project: A Bright Spot
   1. Success of the 22 Fillmore Upgrades
   2. Next Steps in Corridor Improvements
4. Miscellaneous Important Topics

Valencia Street Bikeway Debate: A Heated Exchange

Center-Running vs. Side-Running Bike Lane

The centerpiece of the meeting was the debate over the Valencia Street bike lane design. Cyclists fiercely defended the existing center-running lane, citing improved safety, reduced conflicts with pedestrians, and uninterrupted flow. Advocates highlighted its unique design, which allows bikes to avoid parked car doors and turning vehicles, making it one of the safest corridors in the city.

In contrast, business owners and some drivers criticized the design for reducing parking and complicating access for deliveries and customers. A proposed side-running lane received mixed reactions, with proponents arguing it would offer a more intuitive design and better integration with the neighborhood’s needs. SFMTA staff emphasized that any final design must prioritize safety while balancing the competing needs of all road users.

Merchant Concerns and Parklet Relocations

Valencia’s businesses, represented by the Valencia Corridor Merchants Association, expressed frustration over reduced parking and disruptions caused by the bike lane. The new design plan proposes relocating or removing parklets to accommodate the side-running lanes, with financial support offered for these transitions. Merchants argued for further adjustments to improve accessibility and visibility for customers.

Post-Election Updates and Muni Funding Woes

Impact of Passed and Failed Measures

The meeting reviewed the recent elections, highlighting Measure B’s passage, which secured $60 million for street safety projects, and Measure K, which transitions the Great Highway into a permanent car-free park. However, the failure of Measure L, a proposed tax on rideshare companies, was blamed on conflicts with the simultaneously passed Measure M.

Funding Challenges for Muni and BART

Muni’s financial future was heavily discussed, with warnings of dire service cuts if new revenue streams are not secured. Board members urged closer collaboration with BART, emphasizing the need for unified strategies to avoid losing essential transit services across the region.

16th Street Transit Project: A Bright Spot

Success of the 22 Fillmore Upgrades

The 16th Street Transit Priority Project earned praise for its 25% improvement in travel time and reliability on the 22 Fillmore line. By implementing transit boarding islands, signal prioritization, and red lanes, the project demonstrated the efficiency gains possible through smart investments.

Next Steps in Corridor Improvements

Phase 2 of the project, targeting the Bryant to South Van Ness segment, is expected to finish by year-end. This effort continues to position Muni as a cost-effective and reliable option for riders, even amidst budget constraints.

Miscellaneous Important Topics

• Bayview Shuttle Launch: A new, demand-responsive service aims to address long-standing transit inequities in the Bayview-Hunters Point area.
• Muni Store: Launched to enthusiastic demand, featuring transit-themed merchandise for holiday shopping.
• Taxi Industry Loss: The board mourned the passing of Ashwani Arai, a long-time advocate for taxi drivers in San Francisco.