Chinatown merchants have asked for more parking and better curb access near Portsmouth Square. In response, we identified ways to add parking while still supporting reliable Muni service. The SFMTA is proposing changes to parking, loading and transit on Clay and Sacramento streets in Chinatown. This project focuses on balancing curb access for businesses with reliable transit service on the 1 California.
What’s Changing
We are proposing the following on the southern side of Clay Street between Kearny and Sansome streets:
- Remove the 7-9 a.m. and 3-6 p.m. tow-away zone
- Expand curbside parking and loading hours. This would increase parking
- Change the adjacent traffic lane to a 24-hour transit lane. The transit lane would allow use by right-turning vehicles and taxis
These changes aim to add parking. They also aim to improve reliability for the 1 California on Clay Street.
We are proposing the following on the southern side of Sacramento between Powell and Stockton:
- Remove the existing 4-6 p.m. tow-away zone loading. This parking change would not affect the existing transit lane
- Expand curbside parking and loading
These changes would add parking.
Why This Project Matters
Chinatown is one of the most transit-dependent neighborhoods in San Francisco. About 72% of households do not own a car. At the same time, small businesses depend on parking and loading for customers and deliveries.
The 1 California serves more than 20,000 riders each day. It connects the Richmond District to downtown and passes through Chinatown. It is one of Muni’s busiest routes. It can also have some of the slowest travel times in the area.
Tow-away zones were added in 2016 to help buses move faster. These changes improved reliability, but they also reduced parking during peak hours.
We heard from merchants that more parking and curb access are needed. We also heard from riders that the 1 California needs to be faster and more reliable.
This project responds to both needs.
What This Project Will Do
This proposal restores parking where it is needed most while helping the 1 California move more reliably in Chinatown.
By creating a 24-hour transit lane in the middle of the street and restoring parking along the curb, the street can work better for everyone.
This project will:
- Expand curbside parking and loading hours on Clay and Sacramento streets
- Support businesses, customers and deliveries
- Help reduce delays for the 1 California
- Improve reliability and reduce crowding and pass-ups
Community Outreach
We have been meeting with the Chinatown community through:
- Merchant outreach
- Community meetings
- Ongoing conversations with residents and riders
We will continue working with the community as the project moves forward.
Contact Information
Benjamin Barnett, Public Relations Officer
ChinatownParking@SFMTA.com