SF Civil Grand Jury finds part of 'Vision Zero' failure due to lack police traffic enforcement

Eight pedestrians have died on San Francisco streets this year, undermining the Vision Zero plan aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities by 2024. A Civil Grand Jury report attributes this failure partly to insufficient police enforcement of traffic laws, despite millions spent on safety measures. The report indicates that traffic citations have dropped by 95% since the initiative started in 2014, raising concerns about the lack of accountability for reckless driving. Local officials, including Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, stress that without proper enforcement, traffic regulations remain largely ignored. The San Francisco Police Department cites staffing shortages as a challenge but claims it prioritizes traffic safety.

Recent data shows that while traffic stops for red light violations have increased, many drivers still disobey the law. The report calls for renewed commitment from SFPD to enforce traffic regulations and for SFMTA to work on building community trust. Improving enforcement and community relations could be crucial in reducing pedestrian fatalities in the city.