SF Transit Chief Steps Down After Pandemic Recovery
SFMTA Director Jeffrey Tumlin resigns after nearly six years leading transit agency
SFMTA Director Tumlin Steps Down After 6 Years
San Francisco transit riders will see new leadership at the city's transportation agency after Director Jeffrey Tumlin announced his departure September 3. Tumlin led the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency for nearly six years, starting December 16, 2019. Officials haven't said when his last day will be or who'll take over the role.
Leadership Change Follows Pandemic Recovery Period
Tumlin's tenure included navigating the COVID-19 pandemic's severe impact on transit ridership and operations, according to the agency. Under his leadership, Muni service recovered to 85% of pre-pandemic levels. The agency said he advanced Vision Zero street safety initiatives and climate action goals during his time as director. Officials didn't provide details about what prompted the departure or Tumlin's future plans.
Accomplishments Include Safety and Transit Improvements
"It has been the honor of my career to serve the people of San Francisco during one of the most challenging periods in our city's history," Tumlin said in the announcement. "Together with an incredibly dedicated team, we've made San Francisco's streets safer, our transit more reliable, and our city more accessible to all." He added that while there's always more work to be done, he's proud of what the agency accomplished and confident in the foundation built for the future. Specific metrics on street safety improvements completed during his tenure weren't available.
Succession Timeline Remains Unclear
The agency hasn't announced a timeline for naming Tumlin's successor or whether an interim director will be appointed, transit officials said. SFMTA typically manages leadership transitions through its board of directors, though no board statements were available by publication time. The agency said it'll release more details about the transition process in coming weeks.
Riders Can Track Agency Updates Through Moovit
The leadership change comes as SFMTA continues managing ongoing transit and street safety projects throughout San Francisco. Reactions from city officials and transit advocates weren't immediately available. Riders can stay informed about Muni service and any operational changes during the transition through real-time updates on Moovit.
