San Francisco’s Geary Boulevard Improvement Project Sparks Controversy
San Francisco officials have voted unanimously to implement significant changes to Geary Boulevard, one of the city’s busiest roads. The Geary Boulevard Improvement Project aims to update utilities and enhance pedestrian safety in the Richmond District. However, some local merchants are expressing their dismay over the proposed alterations, particularly involving bus lanes and parking changes that they fear could have a detrimental impact on their businesses.
Many workers in San Francisco’s Richmond District are concerned that the improvement project could potentially lead to the demise of their businesses. Kenny Yue, a San Francisco resident, stated, It will kill off almost all of the damn businesses out here. Shlomit Heller, a co-owner of Beauty Network, which has been operating on Geary Boulevard for 38 years, agrees that it may be too soon for a project of this magnitude. She emphasized the need for small businesses to have an opportunity to recover from the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Over the course of four years, the Geary Boulevard Improvement Project will bring about numerous upgrades to the corridor. However, it is the next phase that is causing controversy. This phase involves extending transit lanes for buses along Geary Boulevard, which would require the elimination of 30 parking spots. Some business owners are concerned that this change will result in fewer shoppers frequenting their establishments. Despite the reservations of some locals, the transit agency maintains that the project will make bus service faster and more reliable.
A Muni survey revealed that individuals who visit the Geary Corridor predominantly walk or use public transportation. Moreover, it was found that those who rely on walking or public transit visit Geary businesses more frequently than those who drive. Dylan Fabris, the community and transit manager for San Francisco Transit Riders, believes that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. He remarked, The SFMTA should not have to delay and reiterate good projects like this one for the sake of a few parking spaces.
On the other hand, concerns persist over the potential negative consequences of removing parking spaces on local businesses that heavily rely on customers who drive. Kenny Yue argues, No cars, no people, I’m not advocating for more cars, I’m saying keep it the way it is, find another way to make it work because we don’t want the proposal that they’re asking. It remains to be seen how the project will unfold and what impact it will have on the local economy.
San Francisco’s SFMTA recognizes the significance of supporting small businesses during the pandemic recovery and has emphasized its commitment to their success. The current phase of the project, known as the Quick-Build phase, is expected to be completed within three months and will primarily involve signage and striping changes, without any excavation work.
The Geary Boulevard Improvement Project has divided opinions among local residents and business owners. While some believe it will enhance public transportation and benefit the community as a whole, others fear that the removal of parking spaces may have detrimental consequences for small businesses. As the project progresses, it is crucial for both sides to engage in open and constructive dialogue to reach a mutually agreeable solution that ensures the continued vibrancy and prosperity of Geary Boulevard and the Richmond District.
