SFMTA Adjusts Valencia Street Bike Lane Design

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) has decided to move the controversial center-running bike lanes on Valencia Street back to the curb, restoring two-lane vehicle traffic between 15th and 23rd streets. Initially introduced as a pilot program to reduce crashes and support small business parklets, the center lanes faced criticism for being dangerous and complicating parking. Cyclists expressed dissatisfaction with navigating traffic signals and left-turning vehicles in the middle lane, leading to several collisions. The new design will include protected curbside bike lanes separated from traffic by parked cars and parklets, with construction beginning in January 2025. While some cyclists doubt the safety of the new lanes, business owners largely support the change, hoping it will improve customer accessibility and revive sales. This decision follows months of public commentary and challenges, including threats of legal action from affected merchants.