San Francisco is dedicated to creating safer, more comfortable, and community-focused streets. A key initiative in achieving this vision is the Slow Streets program, designed to transform residential areas into low-vehicle-traffic routes that prioritize people and active transportation. These streets, open to all forms of transportation including local vehicle access, emphasize slow and safe speeds, fostering a diverse and welcoming environment for everyone.
The Slow Streets initiative directly supports San Francisco’s broader goals of establishing a connected Active Transportation Network across the city. This network aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries, encouraging residents to embrace sustainable, low-carbon travel options for their daily commutes and activities. Slow Streets are integral to building a growing network of pathways where walking, biking, and rolling are not only safe but also enjoyable for individuals of all ages and abilities. Imagine children safely cycling to school, families running errands on foot or bike, and people with disabilities confidently navigating their neighborhoods – this is the reality Slow Streets are creating in San Francisco.
Approved by the SFMTA Board of Directors in December 2022, the Slow Streets Program encompasses two main approaches to enhance the Streets Of San Francisco:
Street Design Enhancements: The SFMTA implements specific design treatments on eligible San Francisco streets to create these low-stress, shared spaces that prioritize active transportation. These durable design elements are carefully chosen to reshape the streets, and include:
- Strategic Turn Restrictions
- Traffic Diverters to manage flow
- Traffic Calming measures like speed humps and cushions
- STOP signs for increased safety at intersections
- Roadway Narrowing to reduce vehicle speed
- Clear Wayfinding signs and pavement markings to guide users
Community Building Initiatives: Recognizing streets as more than just transit corridors, the SFMTA launched the Slow Streets Mural Pilot Program in 2023 to foster placemaking. This program empowers community members to design, create, and maintain murals directly on the street pavement. These vibrant art installations not only beautify the Streets of San Francisco but also reinforce the concept of Slow Streets as community spaces, visually encouraging slower vehicle speeds and a greater sense of ownership and pride among residents.
