Mayor Lurie Announces 40 Million Award For New Muni Buses
Mayor Daniel Lurie announced that the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) received nearly $40 million from the U. S. Department of Transportation to acquire 24 new hybrid buses. This funding aims to ensure reliable and affordable transit service for residents as San Francisco works to recover economically. Mayor Lurie highlighted a 40% drop in crime in Union Square and increased hotel bookings, underscoring the city's recovery momentum.
SFMTA faces a budget deficit projected to reach $434 million by 2030, making this federal funding crucial for fleet modernization. Julie Kirschbaum, SFMTA Director of Transportation, stated that modern buses are essential for maintaining service quality and reducing breakdowns. The Low- or No-Emission Grant will support SFMTA’s long-term commitment to a cleaner transit network. In 2024, Muni achieved its highest customer satisfaction rating in two decades, and this investment aims to build on that success. Ensuring a reliable transit system is vital for the 500,000 daily riders who depend on it.