Latest News in San Francisco, CA

Waymo robotaxis will soon be allowed to drive on 'car-free' section of SF's Market St., mayor says

Mayor Daniel Lurie announced that Waymo autonomous vehicles will soon operate on San Francisco's Market Street, which has been car-free since 2020. While some local businesses welcome the move for increased foot traffic, opposition groups argue it compromises cyclist safety and public transit. The SF Bicycle Coalition emphasizes the need to address deeper issues affecting Market Street rather than just introducing robotaxis.

The Park at the Former Great Highway Now Has a New Name Sunset Dunes

The newly converted park from the former Great Highway has been officially named Sunset Dunes, following a public engagement process that revealed it as the community's favorite choice. The San Francisco Recreation and Parks Commission approved the name during a recent meeting, amid some ongoing debates regarding the park's impact on traffic and local residents. The park, touted as the largest pedestrianization project in California, is set to open on April 12, 2025.

Day 30 of 16th St. Plaza cleanup Patrols rise as streets shift

San Francisco police and sheriff's deputies increased their patrols in the 16th Street area, responding to incidents and monitoring the local population. The report details interactions with individuals, including an arrest related to a warrant and observations of the neighborhood's activity throughout the morning. As the day progressed, the area remained a focal point for law enforcement and community dynamics.

Thursday Morning What's Up Two Fatal Hit-and-Runs on the Peninsula

A 50-year-old man was shot multiple times near downtown Oakland but is reported to be in stable condition. The article also highlights recent fatal hit-and-run incidents involving male suspects in the Peninsula, as well as concerns from Oakland business owners regarding the city's handling of graffiti fines. Other news includes a shooting involving an author and the rising cost of eggs despite previous promises of price reductions.

Mayor Lurie Welcomes Autonomous Vehicles To Market Street As Part of Revitalization of Downtown San Francisco

Mayor Daniel Lurie announced that autonomous vehicles from Waymo will begin operating on Market Street in San Francisco, enhancing access to downtown businesses. The initiative aligns with Lurie's plan to revitalize the area and includes creating five new entertainment zones and streamlining permitting processes.

S.F. to cut city funding protecting against informal evictions

San Francisco's housing department has proposed cuts to funding for seven legal nonprofits that provide civil legal services, particularly defense against informal evictions. These cuts could significantly impact vulnerable populations, with one nonprofit, Open Door Legal, facing a potential loss of $2.2 million. The decision has raised concerns about the increasing challenges low-income residents face in securing housing stability.

Climate Conference Returns to SF This Month With Al Gore as Keynote

The SF Climate Week conference, set to begin on April 18, 2025, is expected to draw a record 25,000 attendees, with former Vice President Al Gore delivering the keynote address. Organized by the nonprofit Climatebase, the conference aims to engage participants in climate action at a time of heightened urgency due to recent political changes. Gore's presence underscores the event's commitment to fostering collective action and innovative solutions to climate challenges.

How does Mayor Luries family zoning affect you? Use our map to find out.

Mayor Daniel Lurie will present his "family zoning" proposal to the San Francisco Planning Commission, aiming to expand building height limits and eliminate unit construction caps in select areas. While some housing advocates support the initiative, neighborhood groups oppose it, highlighting a contentious debate over urban development. The proposal's urgency stems from state mandates requiring new zoning legislation by January 2026.

State Farm faces questions about accuracy of rate hike amid conflict with expert witness

State Farm is facing scrutiny over its proposed property insurance rate hikes in California, with Consumer Watchdog challenging the company's justifications amid concerns of a conflict of interest with an expert witness. The insurance provider has slightly reduced its rate increase request for homeowners but still seeks significant hikes for renters and rental properties. As public hearings unfold, the validity of these proposed changes remains a contentious issue in the state.

Oakland Unified School District Abruptly Fires Superintendent With No Explanation

The Oakland Unified School District's school board unexpectedly removed Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell during a closed session, leaving many community members in shock. Despite her efforts to navigate challenges like a teacher strike and COVID-19 lockdowns, no official reason was provided for her dismissal. This abrupt decision has sparked outrage among parents and board members alike, particularly as Johnson-Trammell had recently been given a new three-year contract.