San Francisco, CA — Mayor London N. Breed and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Director Jeffrey Tumlin today announced Slow Streets, a new program to limit through traffic on select streets. With Muni service reduced, many San Francisco residents are walking or taking other modes to make essential trips and exercise. Some are choosing to walk or jog in the street to maintain social distance. The goal of this program is to reduce and slow vehicle traffic, supporting both public health and pedestrian safety.

“As a result of this pandemic, our transportation system has had to undergo major changes that have affected the way many of our residents get around the City,” said Mayor Breed. “While traffic congestion has dropped, it is still difficult for people maintain physical distance on many sidewalks. The most important thing that people can do right now is to remain inside as much as possible. But when they do have to go outside for essential trips, this program will help people keep six feet of distance from others. I want to recognize the work of Mayor Schaaf in Oakland for putting these kinds of proposals forward, and we will continue to work with our regional partners to adapt as this pandemic evolves.”

Slow Streets are intended to provide a network of streets that prioritize walking and biking for essential trips while still allowing local vehicle traffic. People walking or running will be allowed to be in the street as permitted by California law. Implementation will occur in phases and will be based on streets that could supplement reduced or suspended Muni routes with improved bicycle and pedestrian access to essential services.

“Our agency is committed to giving San Franciscans the necessary space to practice social distancing as they leave their homes for critical needs,” said Jeffrey Tumlin, SFMTA Director of Transportation. “The purpose of Slow Streets is to accomplish those goals, while managing traffic speeds and creating a safe network for essential walk and bike travel while transit service levels are reduced.”

“Slow Streets is a creative way to support pedestrian safety, physical activity and social distancing,” said Dr. Grant Colfax, Director of Health. “As the weather gets nicer, I know it will be tempting to congregate outside, but we need to stay strong and keep up the good work. San Franciscans, please continue staying home as much as possible and keeping 6-feet physical distance from others when outside.”

A preliminary list of Slow Streets is provided below, with phased implementation starting by the end of the week. Temporary signage and traffic cones will be initially used to direct traffic as City staff monitors usage of these spaces and adjacent streets.

Please visit sfmta.com/COVID19 for a map of candidate Slow Streets, updated Muni service, and the latest agency updates.

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