The SFMTA runs one of the most complex transit systems in the country. Many of the thorny challenges facing Muni require multifaceted solutions that take time to deliver. But sometimes a simple, street-level fix is the right tool for the job. The Transit Priority Quick-Build Program, approved by the SFMTA Board of Directors last week, clears a path for improving Muni service quickly on our most heavily-used lines and at the biggest “hotspots” for delay to Muni customers.

Introducing the Transit Priority Quick-Build Program

Modeled on the SFMTA’s Vision Zero Quick-Build effort for faster delivery of traffic safety improvements, the Transit Quick-Build Program focuses on reducing needless delay to transit riders using proven, fast-to-implement solutions. Many times, it can be as simple as painting a curb, moving a bus stop or adding a traffic sign. Improvements can be implemented following public outreach and a public hearing, without requiring additional approval by the SFMTA Board. This can get projects on the ground months or even years faster than the current process.

As a community, San Franciscans place a high value on putting transit first. The Board of Supervisors first adopted the City’s transit-first policy in 1973, and voters have repeatedly reaffirmed their support in 1999, 2007 and 2014. The Transit Priority Quick-Build Program is a Muni Forward initiative that turns those values into action.

The program is one of the first recommendations to be implemented from the Muni Reliability Working Group, which was sponsored by Mayor London Breed, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman and Supervisor Aaron Peskin to improve Muni service. By using solutions to give priority to buses that often carry 100 or more people over cars that often carry just one, we can manage our streets to move the most people and reduce traffic congestion in a sustainable way.

Delivering Muni Forward Faster with Quick-Build Improvements

The Muni Forward program invests in transit priority street upgrades to improve Muni service. To date, over 60 miles of transit priority projects have been approved since 2014, with over 40 miles built. Transit Priority Quick-Build projects will speed up implementing the next round of Muni Forward improvements so that Muni customers experience the benefits now – not years from now.