Even for SF, Congestion Pricing "Too Much"

This editorial argues that the San Francisco isn't ready for a complex scheme that the public dislikes, raises little funding, and would send an 'unwelcome' message to visitors.

1 minute read

January 22, 2009, 6:00 AM PST

By Irvin Dawid

"The Board of Supervisors will get a chance to consider the outlines of a congestion pricing proposal by April with further approvals possibly in a year.

The members should be skeptical of an idea that's drawn heavy verbal crossfire at public meetings, opposition from business and doubts about its practicality, finances and chances for success.

The pricing system is expected to raise from $30 million to $60 million per year, a relatively small amount for transit budgets. In sum, it's a concept that's loaded with uncertainties, which argues for further study and debate.

Outside a coterie of planners and hard-core enthusiasts, the notion of paying more to drive on relatively unclogged city streets isn't ready for prime time."

"Congestion pricing could strain the public support that is needed for more sensible, workable efforts to get people out of their cars.."

FULL STORY: S.F.'s half-baked congestion pricing plan

Thursday, January 15, 2009 in San Francisco Chronicle

Transportation California Congestion Pricing San Francisco

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