Activists ask SF mayor to recommit to expired Vision Zero policy after 6 pedestrian deaths this year

Activists are urging San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie to reinstate the Vision Zero policy, which expired over 100 days ago, in response to six pedestrian fatalities this year. Since 2014, the city has averaged 29 traffic deaths annually, far from its goal of zero fatalities. Jodie Medeiros of Walk SF emphasizes the necessity of accountability, advocating for quarterly meetings with city agencies to ensure safety measures are effectively implemented. Mayor Lurie has expressed his commitment to public safety, stating that his administration will utilize all available resources to protect residents and visitors. Supervisor Myrna Melgar, at the Land Use and Transportation committee, plans to reintroduce the policy with modifications by the end of the month, focusing on measures like daylighting and segregated bike lanes.

The city has installed advanced speed cameras, but only 18 of the 33 approved cameras are operational, raising concerns about timely enforcement. Melgar highlighted the significant financial costs of collisions, amounting to approximately $2. 5 billion over the past five years. The urgency surrounding traffic safety measures underscores the need for a proactive approach to protect vulnerable road users.