Kid Safe SF, the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, San Francisco Transit Riders, and Walk San Francisco have expressed strong opposition to Mayor Daniel Lurie’s recent decision to allow autonomous vehicles, specifically Waymos, on Market Street. This move reverses a five-year period during which the street was free of private cars, resulting in a safer corridor with improved transit service.
The organizations argue that reintroducing vehicles undermines two decades of efforts by city agencies and advocates to enhance safety and efficiency on Market Street. They claim this decision will hinder Muni’s recovery and increase danger for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users who must navigate through traffic to access boarding islands. The presence of autonomous vehicles is expected to slow down Muni buses and streetcars, which had previously seen a 14% improvement in speed and efficiency.
Dylan Fabris from San Francisco Transit Riders criticized the decision as “dangerous, undemocratic, and inequitable,” highlighting concerns about creating a monopoly for Waymo while Muni services face cuts. Christopher White from SFBike emphasized the need for Market Street to be safe and welcoming by prioritizing walking, biking, and transit. Robin Pam from KidSafe SF warned that the plan would add congestion and undermine progress toward an efficient transit system. Jodie Medeiros from Walk San Francisco noted that increased vehicle traffic would make Market Street more dangerous.
The groups are calling on Mayor Lurie to rescind the decision and focus on making Market Street a vibrant destination with shops and culture instead of increasing vehicle traffic.
For further information about car-free Market Street’s history and data, refer to their fact sheet.
Information from this article can be found here.
