SF Adds Protected Bike Lanes to Financial District
SFMTA installs protected bike lanes on Battery and Sansome Streets using quick-build methods
SFMTA Adds Protected Bike Lanes on Battery Street
San Francisco's Financial District is getting safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians as construction continues on Battery and Sansome Streets, transit officials said. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency began work in November 2024 on quick-build safety improvements in one of the city's busiest commercial areas. Construction's expected to wrap up in early 2025, though officials haven't provided a specific completion date.
Quick-Build Approach Speeds Safety Improvements
The project uses temporary materials like paint, flexible posts, and planters to implement safety features rapidly, according to the transit agency. This quick-build methodology allows cities to provide safety benefits in months rather than years compared to traditional construction, transit officials said. The approach aligns with San Francisco's Vision Zero policy, adopted in 2014 to eliminate traffic deaths. The project cost wasn't immediately available from the agency.
Protected Lanes and Pedestrian Features Included
The improvements include protected bike lanes on both Battery and Sansome Streets, pedestrian safety enhancements, transit improvements, and traffic calming measures, according to SFMTA's project page. Jeffrey Tumlin, Director of Transportation for the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, oversees the initiative. Officials said the changes address safety concerns in the corridor, though specific crash statistics for the streets weren't provided. The Financial District's high pedestrian and vehicle volumes make the safety upgrades particularly important for vulnerable road users.
Construction Underway Through Early 2025
Work started in November 2024 following the project's announcement on October 26, 2024. Construction's expected to finish in early 2025, officials said, though a specific completion date wasn't provided. The quick-build approach means safety improvements are being delivered faster than traditional street reconstruction would allow. Officials said they're using the interim materials to test and refine designs before any permanent construction.
Commuters Can Track Project Updates
The safety improvements will benefit the thousands of workers, residents, and visitors who travel through the Financial District daily. Officials said the project's designed to improve mobility for all road users in the area. Riders can check Moovit for real-time transit updates and route information as construction continues on Battery and Sansome Streets.
