Lombard Street test closure starts this weekend

With some exceptions, driving on Lombard Street will be prohibited for the next four weekends. With some exceptions, driving on Lombard Street will be prohibited for the next four weekends. Photo: Michael Short, The Chronicle Photo: Michael Short, The Chronicle Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Lombard Street test closure starts this weekend 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

The curvaceous one-block stretch of Lombard Street might or might not be the world's crookedest street, but on summer weekends it's a congested tourist attraction with visitors lined up in their idling autos for blocks to take the winding ride.

That will change this weekend - and for the next three - as most motor vehicles are prohibited from Lombard between Larkin and Leavenworth streets from approximately noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. On the July 4 weekend, it also will be barricaded.

Exceptions will be made only for residents, emergency vehicles and taxis. Taxis - but not limousines or ride services such as Uber or Lyft - will be granted access to make sure people with disabilities are able to visit the tourist attraction.

The closure test, approved by the Municipal Transportation Agency board in May, aims to calm traffic in the area and give residents of the scenic street a break. MTA officials plan to monitor the closure and its effect on traffic in the neighborhood then determine whether more are warranted.

The street and adjoining gardened sidewalks are not parks nor managed by the city as a tourist attraction. Neighbors say the steady stream of cars, which often backs up to Van Ness Avenue, and the crowds are a nuisance and safety hazard. Critics accuse the neighbors and MTA of being elitist.

During the four-weekend experiment, MTA parking control officers will block off the street and control access. Pedestrians will still be allowed to use the sidewalks, said Paul Rose, an MTA spokesman, but will not be permitted to walk or gather on the crooked street itself.

The street is scheduled for closure June 28-29, July 4-6 and July 12-13.