BART says if voters reject the Connect Bay Area sales-tax measure in November 2026, it could begin drastic cuts in January 2027—closing stations, cutting service, and raising fares—to try to close a massive structural deficit.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a $590 million emergency bridge loan to keep Bay Area transit service running while the region works toward long-term ballot measures in November 2026 — including San Francisco’s proposed Muni parcel tax.

BART says its new “next generation” fare gates are converting more riders into paying customers — bringing in an estimated $10 million per year and reducing station damage and maintenance needs. Turns out a small portion of riders can cause a lot of problems, and fixing that can make a big difference for everyone.

The Westfield mall—downtown’s biggest shopping complex—will shut down on January 26, 2026 after years of decline. The closure creates an urgent opportunity to move fast on a flexible redevelopment that can bring activity back to Market Street.

In his Jan. 15, 2026 State of the City, Mayor Daniel Lurie argued his first year delivered real momentum—and laid out a 2026 agenda to lock it in: affordability, faster permitting, and pro-housing reforms, as the city faces a major deficit and seeks durable progress on street conditions.

San Francisco has finalized a progressive parcel tax design for the November 2026 ballot that would raise $187 million a year for Muni, with most homeowners paying $129 while large landlords and commercial property owners shoulder the biggest share.

Next-generation Clipper launched on December 10 with discounted interagency transfers, instant fund loads, and tap-to-pay across Bay Area transit. It’s a meaningful step toward a more seamless, rider-friendly regional system—but only if agencies pair it with stronger funding and accountability.

Two detailed parcel tax scenarios target November 2026 ballot to close $307 million deficit.

Governor signs legislation enabling a 2026 ballot measure to address devastating funding shortfalls affecting Bay Area transit systems.

Senator Wiener's SB 79 allows more homes near transit stops.

Intense pressure from Senator Wiener, Mayor Lurie, and activists revives a $750 million bridge loan for public transit after Newsom failed to deliver.

San Francisco joins major global cities with contactless payment, making BART rides as simple as buying coffee—no Clipper card required.

After running a competitive bidding process, BART will switch from Urban Alchemy to District Works for their elevator attendant program, prompting layoffs at Urban Alchemy.

A new report from SFMTA shows that fare evasion is down, inspections are up, and revenue per rider is increasing.

Facing severe financial strain, SFMTA Director Julie Kirschbaum has cut 12 senior management roles to streamline operations and protect rider services.

San Francisco’s public transit system has reached a key milestone: Muni now serves 75% of the riders it did before the pandemic, showing signs of real recovery.

Senators Wiener and Arreguín have introduced SB63 to authorize five Bay Area counties to run a regional funding measure for public transit.