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SFMTA Mobilizes Transit, Traffic and Parking Resources in Preparation for Potential BART Strike

Friday, June 28, 2013

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), which manages transportation in the city, including the Municipal Railway (Muni), has developed a contingency plan in the event of a strike by the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART). Should a strike occur, public transit customers who normally travel daily into San Francisco could be seeking other means of getting to their destinations. The plan aims to provide SFMTA services in the city to those displaced by a strike and endeavors to avoid or minimize gridlock.

This plan is designed for swift activation to ensure the safe and efficient movement of displaced commuters utilizing various modes of transportation to connect them with Caltrain, SamTrans, AC Transit, Golden Gate Transit and ferry services. Delays and congestion are anticipated.

“We share the hope that a BART strike will be averted. However, we are prepared to minimize impact to those traveling to San Francisco," said Mayor Ed Lee. “Our City will be open for business, and we have been working with our regional transit partners, local businesses, and other key stakeholders to coordinate an effective contingency plan to keep our City moving.”

As additional details become available, they will be posted at 511.org. A special BART strike page at alert.511.org includes updates on BART’s service status, alternative transit and ridesharing options, real-time traffic and transit information, and other trip-planning tools. BART information can be found at www.bart.gov. Commuters should check back regularly for updates. For real-time Muni updates during the week, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and special events, follow us on www.twitter.com/sfmta_muni or visit www.nextmuni.com/myNextBus to sign up for real-time text messages or email alerts.

Muni

To keep major BART corridor service fully staffed, the SFMTA will prioritize Muni service along the following bus routes and rail lines during peak hours:

  • 14 Mission
  • 49 Van Ness-Mission
  • J Church (to and from Balboa Park/Geneva)
  • N Judah (to and from Caltrain @ 4th and King)

Transit Fare Inspectors will be deployed to assist customers with directions on how to reach their destinations and how to purchase their Muni fares.

Parking and Traffic

SFMTA Parking and Traffic, Enforcement and Off-Street Parking employees will be mobilized to implement measures designed to alleviate traffic congestion and to assist travelers. Parking garages may have parking available. Off-street parking staff will provide garage managers with additional outreach materials. For more information about specific garages or lots, visit sfmta.com.

Visit www.sfpark.org or download the application to find real-time information about available on and off-street parking spaces and rates in SFpark pilot areas.

Casual Carpooling

Casual carpooling will be expanded for San Francisco-East Bay travelers and available from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

  • Carpooling Departure Point C1 for East Bay locations along the Richmond BART Line is located on Beale Street between Howard and Folsom streets.
  • Carpooling Departure Point C2 for East Bay locations along the Fremont and Dublin/Pleasanton BART lines is located on the west side of Spear Street between Howard and Folsom streets.
  • Carpooling Departure Point C3 for East Bay locations along the Pittsburg/Baypoint BART Line is located on the east side of Spear Street between Howard and Folsom streets.

Taxi Service

In the morning, taxi stands will be at key transfer points: Transbay Terminal and the 4th and King Caltrain Station. Evening taxi stands are at downtown hotels. A map of the hotel stands is available on sfmta.com.

Biking or Walking

In addition to transit, carpooling and parking, the SFMTA recommends that commuters consider bicycling and walking when these options are viable. If you plan to use a bicycle for your commute, a map of bicycle routes is available on sfmta.com.

Other options include flexible work hours to avoid the peak commuting periods, telecommuting and taking vacation.