Key Takeaway: The SFMTA works closely with various agencies who are responsible for different elements in the public right of way. Ongoing coordination with these agencies is an important part of ensuring accessibility across San Francisco.
The SFMTA oversees most transportation modes in San Francisco but collaborates closely with other agencies responsible for sidewalks, curb ramps, drainage and utilities, including the Department of Public Works, Public Utilities Commission, Recreation & Parks and Port of San Francisco. When projects are proposed, the SFMTA must coordinate with all these agencies to ensure completion.
Coordinating multi-agency projects is complex and involves managing timelines, budgets, and complying with local, state and federal regulations. Projects like the Central Subway, which take years to plan, contrast with immediate responses like utility repairs, making consistent workplans challenging due to varying project scales.
Accessibility guidance for multi-agency projects is reviewed by Disability Access Coordinators (DACs) from each agency, posing challenges when interpretations of guidelines or design solutions differ. Securing funding for multi-agency projects is another challenge. For example, the Better Market Street Project aimed to upgrade 2.2 miles to ADA standards but is facing significant delays due to budget impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coordination is a city-wide effort. For example, the SF Public Works provides an interactive map for tracking street projects, aiding stakeholders in understanding ongoing efforts and ensuring accessibility, performance optimization and environmental impact minimization. Utilizing these resources effectively could enhance citywide accessibility improvements.
SFMTA staff regularly collaborate with counterparts at other agencies to develop shared design standards and processes, enhancing design consistency and user experiences while improving cost estimation. For instance, the jointly developed San Francisco Accessible Passenger Loading Zone standard is now integrated into new projects citywide, highlighting opportunities for similar advancements.