Car-Free on Market Street?

San Francisco's Market Street is heavily used by buses, cars, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Officials are studying the potential effect of restricting cars either partially or completely, to make it "great once again."

1 minute read

February 25, 2009, 2:00 PM PST

By Judy Chang

"A spokesman for Mayor Gavin Newsom said the idea of banning cars on Market Street is worth studying.

'If it doesn't have a detrimental effect on businesses and is done the right way, then the mayor would be open to it,' said Newsom spokesman Nathan Ballard.

The new study will consider possible impacts on businesses. It also will determine whether removing autos would add to or detract from the unsavory elements that pock much of the mid-Market area between Fifth and Eighth streets.

Does having cars travel up and down the corridor provide an element of safety, particularly at night? Or, could the creation of a pedestrian-friendly corridor bring more life and vibrancy to the struggling area?

Andy Thornley, project director for the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, said revamping Market Street shouldn't be approached too narrowly. If cars are restricted, the city should make sure that improved amenities are in place for transit users, cyclists and pedestrians, he said."

FULL STORY: S.F. to study restricting cars on Market Street

Wednesday, February 25, 2009 in The San Francisco Chronicle

Community / Economic Development Government / Politics Transportation California San Francisco

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