SFMTA outlines transit plans for students ahead of school reopening
June 08, 2021 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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In a pivotal meeting on July 4, 2025, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) outlined its plans to restore Muni services in alignment with the upcoming school year. Transit Director Julie Kirschbaum emphasized the agency's commitment to supporting students and families as they prepare for the return to school in mid-August.
Kirschbaum highlighted that the SFMTA has been working diligently to restore service levels that were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the agency operates at less than half of its pre-pandemic service hours, but plans are in place to restore 98% of routes, ensuring that all equity neighborhoods are within a two to three block walk of transit. This restoration is crucial as nearly 30% of middle schoolers and 50% of high schoolers rely on Muni for their daily commutes.
The presentation included a detailed map showing current and planned routes, with modifications aimed at enhancing accessibility for students. Kirschbaum noted that while some routes will not return to their pre-COVID configurations, these changes are temporary and will be evaluated for potential permanence after community feedback.
In addition to service restoration, the SFMTA is implementing safety measures, including a continued mask mandate on Muni vehicles, in compliance with federal regulations. The agency is also reintroducing its Transit Ambassador Program, which provides support to students during peak travel times, helping to ensure a safe and orderly transit experience.
Kirschbaum expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and encouraged ongoing communication to facilitate a smooth transition for families. The SFMTA aims to keep the community informed through various channels, including local newspapers and school communications.
As the city gears up for the school year, the SFMTA's proactive approach to restoring transit services underscores its commitment to equity and accessibility, ensuring that all students have safe and reliable transportation options.
Kirschbaum highlighted that the SFMTA has been working diligently to restore service levels that were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the agency operates at less than half of its pre-pandemic service hours, but plans are in place to restore 98% of routes, ensuring that all equity neighborhoods are within a two to three block walk of transit. This restoration is crucial as nearly 30% of middle schoolers and 50% of high schoolers rely on Muni for their daily commutes.
The presentation included a detailed map showing current and planned routes, with modifications aimed at enhancing accessibility for students. Kirschbaum noted that while some routes will not return to their pre-COVID configurations, these changes are temporary and will be evaluated for potential permanence after community feedback.
In addition to service restoration, the SFMTA is implementing safety measures, including a continued mask mandate on Muni vehicles, in compliance with federal regulations. The agency is also reintroducing its Transit Ambassador Program, which provides support to students during peak travel times, helping to ensure a safe and orderly transit experience.
Kirschbaum expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and encouraged ongoing communication to facilitate a smooth transition for families. The SFMTA aims to keep the community informed through various channels, including local newspapers and school communications.
As the city gears up for the school year, the SFMTA's proactive approach to restoring transit services underscores its commitment to equity and accessibility, ensuring that all students have safe and reliable transportation options.
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