SAN FRANCISCO—Thousands of tourists could be forced to pay as much as $10 to drive down the famous Lombard Street in San Francisco. San Francisco Board of Supervisor member Phil Ting announced a bill, AB 1605, on Monday, April 15 that would authorize the City and County of San Francisco to establish a toll and reservation system for the famous street, which winds down a steep hill, to reduce congestion. The popular road at times creates bumper to bumper traffic that can be backed up as much as three blocks.
“In recent years, the crowds and traffic congestion have become a safety issue for that neighborhood,” said Ting in a press release. “We must implement a system that enables both residents and visitors to enjoy the ‘Crookedest Street in the World.’”
The steep, single-lane street was built on a 27 percent grade and features eight hairpin turns and scenic views, attracting more than two million visitors a year. The San Francisco County Transportation Authority concluded in its 2017 study that managing access to the tourist attraction has become necessary and recommended a reservation and pricing system.
Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who represents District 2 where the street is located, is the author of a resolution backing AB 1605. The SF Board of Supervisors are scheduled to vote on the resolution on Tuesday, April 16.
“We must try out the Reservation and Pricing system as our next step towards meeting the needs of both tourists and residents,” said Stefani. “The system will address the block of bumper to bumper traffic that build up on the way to the crooked street, improve the experience for tourists, and better the quality of life for the residents.”
Ting’s bill will be considered by the Assembly Transportation Committee on Monday, April 22.
