It's completely appropriate for Muni to use the Next Bus signs to let us know when Metro shuts down. There will be tourists and infrequent riders who only discover it this way, probably when they walk up to a platform or shelter at four in the afternoon to head somewhere they won't be coming back from until after 10:00pm. The 22 connects with the metro lines, so the same applies here too.
What is wrong is sending you off to a web site to look for information, they should make the information available at the shelter with the system map.
What's also very, very wrong is telling people the Metro system shuts down at 10:00pm, when some lines are shutting down closer to 9:30. It's one thing to be shutting down the subway system absurdly early, it's an entirely different thing to lie to riders about when that is.
Then there are those damn signs themselves. There have to be better LED displays on the market. These are too small to read at even a modest distance (and I'm someone with perfect vision!) especially when the text scrolls. Better LED signs are not cheap, but there are worth it (think multiline, multicolor signs which can have one line dedicated to messages while the other is always showing the next train, even counting down the seconds until it arrives)
thanks for commeting in the beta version of the new site! eventually the site's graphics will be a bit more unique, and the layout will be less generic...
It's fine if Muni wants to tell us when the subway shuts down, I agree.
It is NOT great when doing so obliterates the prime function of the sign, which is to tell people the number of minutes until the next train or bus arrives.
They need to decide something and stick with it so people know what to expect. Otherwise using it becomes that much more of a hassle when it need not be.
I'm an interaction designer (for the company which makes the same Movable Type running your new site) and transit is a side interest of mine (my last entry was about the MTC and I've also been fooling with my own fantasy muni metro expansion map and I've started writing an article about the importance of predictability and eliminating doubt when using transit.
Predictability and status are really the key. Once those get set as a priority the decisions to support that become easier (such as what you display on those signs, and if you have more than one very important piece of information to display justifies getting two-line signs)
Maybe you can help me and Mason Powell (our soon to be regular contributor) move the archives from Journalspace properly....we keep getting just one thing wrong....MT is a superior system to our old platform though, and we really like controlling our destiny via domains and whatnot....still....
The problem is that the NextBus signs spend only about 2 of every 10 seconds showing the next train time. The other 8 seconds are spent on the subway closing announcement and the web site address. It really is a poor usage of the limited screen space.
I think it makes more sense to use NextBus for temporary announcements, such as today's gas leak that forced a bus bridge on the N-Judah. That is very useful information for riders because they could opt to try and find a different way to their destination.
Since this is a long term project, why couldn't they just mount permanent signs in the shelters and not use the NextBus screen space? I must admit, however, that I first learned of the Metro closures via the NextBus announcements, which started about a week before the closures.
I can't find any news references yet, but there were at least two Muni incidents on Saturday. A 1-California trolley was in a collision with a new SUV of some sort--it didn't even have plates yet--near CPMC in Laurel Heights.
An N-Judah train was involved in something near the Ocean Beach end of the line. I couldn't tell what happened, but an ambulance was on the scene when I was in the area. There was a bus bridge up to Sunset where the trains were turning back. A poor woman in a wheelchair had to load into the bus, go a few stops, unload from the bus, load into the train and unload at her final stop. Ugh.
I hear you. The second car of the N has been given up to random street crazies and hippies on permenent vacation. There's no way to not let these people on...somehow I wish you could swipe your Fastpass to get on the second car, but I realize that's way unrealistic.
The comment from Maggie Lynch is priceless...maybe if she actually rode Muni herself she'd have a better handle on the going rate.
Of course, more inspectors would help, but maybe some other solutions are needed to boost farebox revenues. I think proof of payment on ALL lines, is needed (It will keep the inspectors busy at least). Think of how many more fare evasion tickets could be written on the buses!
Along with this, stop calling them transfers! Call them what they really are. Tickets. Get people in the habit of getting a ticket, not "asking for a transfer". That sounds like it's not needed.
Finally, when all else fails, and Deadbeat Hippie and Anita Bonghit get on the train, have the fare inspectors open the doors at the next stop, and physically throw the bums off. Then announce to the crowd "No Ticket" in the style of the zeppelin scene in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade"
Saying stop removal is "soviet-like" is how we ended up with the level of service we have.
Muni can't be improved if stop removal isn't an option, or if even line consolidation isn't an option.
We need someone taking a holistic look at Muni and service and how to improve it. I think it speaks well of Nathaniel Ford he recognizes Muni can't do that themselves and hired on outside firm that's going to look at it objectively so Muni staff can't point fingers at traffic and everyone else on earth can't just tell muni to fix service without removing stops, changing routes or magically make lights turn green (transit signaling is a SFCTA thing, not something Muni can do themselves)
SPUR pointed out combining some of the redundant lines left over from the 1955 Market Street Railway buyout could mean more service along the unified line.
I agree completely, and fully support SPUR's recommendations, which include consolidation, etc.
My comment was not to suggest we rule out all stop removals forever (something some of our supervisors engage in, facts be damned) more like a tongue in cheek comment that sure, you can make a system run "faster" if you simply remove most of those pesky stops! :-)
Sometimes comments like that don't come off in print like they would in person...
Of course, one thing I forgot to mention was "loaders". In the old days, Muni would have people at busy stops collecting fares then allowing people to board through exit doors. It would also use bus space more efficiently. Why have people onto an already full 30 Stockton or 38 Geary when another one is usually behind it nearly empty? Loaders could control the distribution of people and get their $1.50 at the same time (and issue them their ticket!)
I am a San Francisco native culturally forlorned in San Diego, reminiscing my childhood across the St. from the Market St. Safeway and the Mint. Your site is what I miss about home. The N Judah Chronicles brings me back. BEST of LUCK!
As a Giants season ticket holder (and not a MUNI passholder), I got used to buying passes onboard on my way to the park (from Cole/Carl), then from the tables outside the park after the game. Apparently, MUNI can't be bothered anymore and scrapped the tables. They put the task on the Giants now, who opened two ticket windows. Yes. TWO ticket windows for 42,000 people. Some have cars, some have passes, but the lines after today's game show that they really screwed the pooch with this decision. And in reference to the post, you cannot buy a pass onboard on the way home, nor from the ticket machines. You must wait in line at the stadium with the rest of the people who will soon find other ways to get to the park. Bad move, MUNI.
I am the inventor and founder of NextBus, and this is my first visit to your site. My role at the company is limited now, but I can tell you that the staff is very sensitive to your thoughts. NextBus manages a very large territory and its customers are very tight. So it needs the help of those that are looking at its displays. When things aren't working right, or when you have suggestions, please email info@nextbus.com.
As to the size of the signs, they shrink fast when they go up in the air. Big ones are expensive, but well within transit budgets.
NextBus gets very little money from the Muni. It would help a lot if you let your SF Supervisor know you value the NB service.
Ken Schmier
thanks for the info and the email link...I think the concept of NextBus is great and I use it all the time on my Mac. I think Muni doesn't always realize how to implement it like they did when they messed up the info on the displays.
I really think they should update the system to put Next Bus in place on all busy buses and Munis....it would make planning and anticipating a trip much easier.
I was surprised to discover there wasn't any asterisk on that "All Muni Free" heading like "does not include cable car lines"
I guess I've just gotten used to things like metro station close at 10 meaning they close at 9:35 or "there's another train right behind me" meaning a 20 minute disruption.
Just to clear up the global misinformation, Lombard is the *second* crookedest street in SF. Vermont (by the highway, Potrero) is the actual crookedest.
Excellent! Charging for parking at transit points has never made any sense. Getting people out of their cars and onto the trains is supposed to be the raison d'etre of public transportation. In the suburbs how else are commuters to get to the stations if not by car. Suburban bus systems are not the greatest.
Another annoying problem...yesterday while waiting for just ONE 'N' downtown 6, SIX, 'Ks' went past. Distribution of cars on the MUNI rail is terrible.
And then there's the homeless who just don't bathe.
I was on the second car of an inbound Judah this afternoon, where it wasn't bad enough the kids in the back half of train were so loud and obnoxious they'd driven everyone else to the front half other than the homeless guy who was telling them off, then at Stanyan another half dozen 20-something homeless kids got on, and first it was the smell of the cigarette the girl put out on the door once she was in the car, followed by all kinds of different smells while we got enjoy their pack leader talking about how he wanted to decapitate someone who'd pissed him off.
How could I ever forget: never board the second car!
I had the chance to listen to the archive of the show (I got interrupted when NextBus came up).
One caller said that as a rider he would rather have imperfect information than no information. Both Ronn Owens and Nat Ford said they disagreed. I was somewhat disapppointed by that response. It is the response of someone who has never stood on a street corner waiting and waiting for their usual bus to come when two blocks away, the buses are running mostly on time.
Otherwise, it was definitely informative to listen to Mr. Ford answer questions.
True, but at the same time you'd hate to see the Chron or the Ex blast out a headline "NextBus Boondoggle Wrong X% of the time" and the local TV people making hay of it.
For me I judge the response, Ford was upfront and at least sounded like he was making an effort to undo the damage of previous folks. The response of the Muni's spokesperson with sarcastic remarks was not so great.
this doesn't answer your question, but...
why get off BART at Embarcadero? to save money? if you'd take it to Van Ness you might catch up with an earlier N.
Ok, so the reason you hear all the announced L's, M's, K's, back to back J's, and legend has it a thing called the Castro Shuttle, and then out of nowhere suddenly there's an N-Judah is because the Voice of Muni (aka "the Muni Lady") doesn't know one's coming until it actually gets into the tunnel and into the computer controlled area.
I'm pretty sure the Voice of Muni is not powered by NextBus, because I've been looking at the screen in the Castro Station booth when the voice announces it a minute or two off what NextBus says.
The previous person who answered, Jamison, explained the reason. It's because outbound N-Judahs come in from outside the subway. The "voice of Muni" can't recognize anything that's outside the subway.
There is a large train location board at Embarcadero Station. If you look at it, occasionally, you will see something stirring at the east end of the mimic board. This is an N train entering the subway.
Heh...I love doing that on the N going through the tunnel to Carl & Cole. I also do it on BART between Civic Center and 16th Street. Public transportation surfing is a must if you don't want to touch the germ-ridden poles in the trains.
I have had the same thoughts - spare the air and other free muni days are just a MAJOR inconvenience to those that actually ride muni every day. Schedules are even more likely to be f-ed up and the ride is all the more overcrowded. ugh! Even more so, if they are expecting these free-riders to convert, they should maybe consider providing a slightly better user experience than having an N only every 20 plus minutes at rush hour on on a game day.
I must say, I do enjoy reading your N Judah Chronicles. And I can picture them so clearly because I ride them all the time. (Hell I live in Inner Sunset too, we could be neighbors. How creepy!) That lady rider makes an excellent point. I paid for a full month's worth of transit for that fast pass, I want a discount on next month's!
Oh I'll be namin' names just as soon as my attorney advises me on the wherefores and how-tos of it all.
Let's just say that taking on Muni is a lot safer than taking on dishonest taxi cab companies. Those frakkers are low rent and lowdown, and think the gutter is the high road!
Use canvas. They are stronger and better for the environment. Jeez, what kind of liberal are you? I'm sure you could get a blank one and put your own self-aggrandizing logo on it.
Btw, It's great to find you again. More surly and obnoxious but that's what I love and would expect.
On one of the rainy days last year...the REAL rainy days I was waiting at the stop at 16th and Judah when a train came by and stopped. I and another "potential" rider pushed the button on the last door in the last car and it didn't open. We turned to walk to the next door and the MUNI left without us. Did the driver check his mirrors? The next train, nearly empty, didn't even stop...just kept going. Made me think that the drivers were enjoying some private joke of leaving riders standing in the pouring rain.
That whack job that's now trying to stop the Geary busway also tried to stop Octavia Boulevard and rebuild the Central Freeway with his "Save the Central Freeway" group.
I do kind of wish there was some way to compensate those of us with passes. I spend $179.25 a month on my combined Caltrain/Muni pass. I would love to get a couple bucks off.
I had Monday off so this time I made sure to go somewhere near a BART station so I could feel like I got a little benefit from all this.
While I too enjoy deadbeats getting caught on MUNI. I do have to let you know that the fare gates (especially at the Montgomery Station) downtown ARE NOT ALWAYS staffed in the day. Also, the fare gates at many of these unstaffed enterances are broken and don't take coins either. I'm not defending this guy, he probably is as bad as you make him out to be, but his excuse does make some sense if you go check the facts.
Indeed we did. It's a bit of climb but once you're up there it is really nice. Very quiet too. It's amazing how quiet some city neighborhoods can be. And we were just a couple of blocks from my house!
Well, I can only go on experience and what Muni tells me, but the faregates aren't "broken" but they are set to not accept coins when an agent isn't there. In the Downtown stations, when there is only one agent they are always in the west end of the station, according to Muni. I have always been able to find one. Maybe this isn't always the most practical setup, especially at Montgomery, where I always seem to end up on the eastern side and have to make the walk to the other end. I still think ol' Chip just didn't want to make the effort to go to the other gate.
Nice Pictures of that big ole city...I'm sure glad that you finally posted some pictures of them ole N-Judah trains, cuz we here in Oklahoma never seen trains like that...I wuz thinkin that it looked like them ole Amtrak trains...Oh and by the way, I'm not too sure that Mason Powell is a real name!? Aint that some local street names? Sounds a bit bogus to an old timer like myself...Anyway, keep up the good work!
Broken faregates will soon be even less of an excuse.
Translink machines are being installed and soon buying a ticket (they should call them tickets, I think the idea of calling it a "transfer" or even worse a "receipt" makes it sound optional in the first place) can be done with cash or credit card instead of exact change.
I never really liked them plums anyway...I didn't realize you could grow plums in san francisco...So how long has Mason been a plum grower? If I ever make it to that big ole city, I'll be sure to stop by Mason's orchard...Good day...
As you pointed out, Muni can only make muni by cutting service and driving away riders because they loose money on every rider. In fact fares only account for about 25% of Muni's yearly revenue.
It creates a system in which riders are a drain on the system. Managers and planners are in an unfortunate position choosing between cutting service and raising fares. Those most dedicated to their job are going to be the ones who are going to be most discouraged. Add to that outside political pressure telling them they can't do either.
So I've had this idea kicking around for a while...
Set aside privatization and that editorial, particularly the quotes from Jane Jacobs, has a point about making Muni competitive. That means Muni needs to have a vested interest in attracting riders with good and fast service.
This is where the private sector has something to offer. A business depends on sales of products and services to make money and that means (in most cases) they have to make the customer happy. Now if Muni were to make money off every rider instead of loosing it, they'd have a reason to improve service.
No, I'm not suggesting hiking fares, but while rider fares are about 25% of Muni's budget, the City provides about 30% through DTP fines and fees, a majority of Muni funding.
If Muni received those DPT funds on a matching basis, cutting ridership would also cut revenue, not the other way around. Caltrain receives a lot more of it's funding directly through fares and matching funds, so last year when they were facing a deficit they increased service by (I think it was) 10 trains a day to attract more riders (though it did come along with a fare increase)
That was a great story. I've seen this play out in a different fashion once--some well-dressed young woman tried to put in 1.25, instead of 1.50, and made a big stink when the operator told her she was a quarter short. I understand being short a quarter, and twice in my Muni riding life I gave a quarter (once .50 cents to an obvious tourist who seemed to think there was a change machine on the 71). Anyway, I wonder what's up with this apparent sense of entitlement that these obviously-not-poor "YITs" seem to have?
I am so glad the story this story decides to target the young generation who are rich. Basically someone who can afford to pay the insane $100+ dollar fine and the younger generation who we can't seem to tolerate because they haven't been beaten down yet. What a great collection of quick judgements.
I think we can have a more productive conversation than complaining about what you call deadbeats and hippies. We should be focusing on all the people who are driving their cars by themselves up 101 (and in the city)for example. 70%-80% are driving by themselves. The city should be working towards making Muni free instead of ticketing people who aren't polluting and clogging up the streets.
The mayor and the sup are excellent politicians, I must admit, but I didn't feel that anything was really solved other than "hey, we're listening to your little complaints". The turn out was pretty good ("best we've had" ), but I was pretty disappointed by the entire event beyond the crazy questions the residents asked.
90% of the questions submitted on paper were about the BRT -- obviously the hot topic of the meeting. It was hardly addressed though. I would figure a bunch of construction and rail..er... I mean bus lanes being installed would be more important than say, sex and coyotes in GGP.
Excellent points, to be sure. Now, to be fair, the questions submitted on paper were to be guaranteed an answer from Mr. Mayor and Mr. Supervisor.
That said, I agree. A Bus Rapid Transit is not a perfect solution - it is at best a happy compromise.
But, the Geary BRT is in only the earliest of study stages. Nothing is going to happen without a lot o' people's support. And the hope is that a BRT NOW will mean a rail transit on the B-Geary in the future.
Unfortunately, Rail means FEDERAL dollars and lets face it the morons in the feds want money for crack whores or something....hehe
Because I'm so sure I wept at the loss of my hipster status when I moved from Haight to the Avenues. Pft. (10th is considered the Avenues? I always thought 19 and out were.)
I'd rather be a nerd paying a decent rent for more space than being cool and sharing a closet in a communal house that constantly reeks of weed.
Of course, I probably seem like an edgehog because I hate sitting next to the window, but I will allow someone into the other seat and when I see a bus or train filling up, I turn to the side so someone can get in.
Funny, the sex act lady talked my wife and my ears off in Strybing Arboretum last week. It must have been her, as she was only semi-coherent and very concerned about taking back the park from all those lewd folks that I never see (and I live next to the park).
How about those lovely edgehogs who won't even get up to let you pass and expect you to somehow levitate to the empty seat? Maybe I should start crawling over them instead!
I thought this was very funny until I saw the comments about Chinese people. I know the elderly and recently-arrived Chinese can be rude and pushy, and I've been known to joke about it myself. They come from a different place and culture where that kind of behavior is necessary and ordinary. The 30 Stockton is especially hairy in this regard. But to generalize these characteristics to all Chinese people is racist.
I had a similar experience to you walking home from UCSF to Funston/Judah (where I live). Was just walking on Irving when I noticed that new Malaysian restaurant in the basement of some building. I forget the name already. It's between 5th and 6th maybe? But it's amazing what you notice when you hop of the Muni and start walking sometimes.
As for Andronico's I have a love-hate relationship with it. But on the whole, I find that shopping at Park's on 10th and Irving for produce, Andronico's for meat and Amazon Grocery for processed/bulk items is my current plan of action (oh and I *love* the 22nd and Irving produce market - they always have great fruit at great prices).
The Lime Tree is apparently really good, even though it's in a bit of a strange spot in the downstairs of that building. The Essential Foods folks recommended it.
Well I swung by Essential Foods this morning. It's a cute little shop. For its size, the selection is decent. As for a price comparison, they're cheaper than Andronico's from what I could see.
I bought a package of Fig Newmans for 3.79 (usually 4.50+ at Andronico's) and a $3 bag of pita chips (usually $4 at Andronico's). So on the whole, I'm happy with this new addition.
Also noticed that the travel agency further along the block is completely gone from the storefront on Irving and 6th. Here's hoping that something more interesting than a travel agency replaces it.
And re: the Lime Tree (thanks for reminding me of the name). It is good. I tried it a couple of weeks back. It's not fancy, but good for a quick bite or take-out.
A pub crawl would be awesome on the N! You should try and have it a bit of a take-over and a bit of a crawl. Maybe a cool theme or something would be fun too.
What's funny is that I know the exact fare inspector you're talking about, and honestly she seems pretty cool most of the time. I'm surprised she lost her cool, but Lordie knows what kind of pre-ride frenzy the fare inspectors were whipped into. Also, it's funny that you touched on Critical Mass (partly becuase I became so disgusted with Muni I've become a bike rider so have been thinking a lot about the politics/etiquette of non-motorized transportation in this city) because before I became a bike rider I thought Critical Mass was a cool idea (in my mind it was making a statement about the sheer volume, or "mass" of bicyclists) but now that I ride there are enough of us on the main thorougfares where our presence during commute hours is a pretty good statement on the practicality and ease of biking. Now that I ride, I've heard enough stories from friends of mine who tell me they don't like those "damn bicyclists" and when I dig deeper, two reasons for their contempt come out. One, they had a bad experience with Critical Mass--one person I know had her car spit on, others were simply held up in traffic when all they wanted to do was get home after a long week. Two, the way that bicyclists run stop signs pisses off and scares drivers. What it comes down to is that nobody is above common decency or civil discourse. I don't like cars either, (it doesn't help that I was dragged by a truck once when I got hit from behind on my motorcycle) but what this city needs--on Muni, from bicyclists, from cars, is the realization that we're all on this densely packed peninsula together and none of us--people on bicycles, the bums barfing on your shoes, the drivers on cell phones, are entitled to disregard the comfort, safety, and dignity of others. Well, it's Sunday so that's my sermon. Thanks for the thought-provoking post!
Thank you for your comments...they are a appreciated.
I think you raise some points, but for me common sense and a rational assessment of situations is what is missing.
I don't hate bicycles or bicyclists as a group - heck my brother rides his bike a lot on the Peninsula and I'd hate it if he got hit by a care. BUT - he also obeys the rules of the road, including stopping at stop signs, which bicyclists in this city do at their own peril given the topography of city roads.
With regards to the (many) fare inspectors - whatever they were told was bullshit. These folks came to the scene treating paying customers/riders/citizens like criminals assumed guilty before presumed innocent, and frankly, that's bullshit.
As we have posted previously we support the role of fare inspectors, but this was not one of those situations where it was necessary to do the hardass bullshit routine. Common sense, including the fact everyoen was HOLDING A FRAKKING TRANSFER IN THEIR HAND should have made them realize they were needed elsewhere. These were NOT those loser anarchists who have caused damage on our mass transit.
Thanks though for posting and engaging in some dialogue (I mean it, I"m not being sarcastic) - that is one of the duties of this site :-)
Well, now I'm sort of glad I missed out on the MuniParty. Nothing urks me more than law enforcement that over-extend their privledges. This is another clear cut case of the misallocation of resources and political allingments. As the Cron pointed out, the cyclists have a lot of political clout, maybe this would point to why CM has free reign every last Friday of the month?
On that same note, I'd like to say I'm very much pro-cyclist and the city needs a group to push for more bike lines, lockups, and criminal punishment for stealing bikes. I just wish they wouldn't abuse their power much like you showed in your Muni Theater.
It's too bad you had to bring up that old false canard about Critical Mass blocking ambulances. That tips your hand that you either weren't really watching, or you just like to make things up to hurl at the riders. I was in that ride and the mass pulled over quite quickly and easily for a fire engine and later an ambulance. Of course, these emergency vehicles were headed the wrong way down the road because all the *cars* were blocking the proper right of way. When was the last time you saw a traffic jam consisting of automobiles move out of its way for an ambulance?
Critical Mass means different things to different people, but to me the point of CM is to demonstrate that, although 5000 cars headed to the same place would be a disaster, 5000 bicycles pass by without incident in a few minutes. It's a demonstration of why the bicycle is more suited to city life than the car. And the way the Mass can easily get out of the way of emergency vehicles is one facet of that demonstration.
I've been a fan of the N-Judah Chronicles for quite some time.
I am a car commuter, N-Judah commuter and Caltrain commuter.
Your perspective seems a bit too anti-cyclist.
You write, "But this is San Francisco, where the police escort the lawbreakers, it seems. Critical Massholes can take comfort that no matter how big a pack of jerks they are, no one can stop them."
As a pedestrian who has been hit by a car that ran a redlight: http://www.cyphgen.com/img/accident.jpg
I think the bigger danger is redlight runners, and cars. I don't see cyclists as a threat. Each one of them is one more parking space I can have in this city. Many car drivers are law breakers who speed and don't stop at stop signs. Many car drivers in the Bay Area drive more wrecklessly and dangerously here than on the East Coast.
Here's what I'd like to work with folks on:
1) Better transit
2) More folks who drive nice like in Maryland. Even during a rush hour with lots of cars, Marylanders give each other space.
Cheers,Barce
It's one day a month that these cyclists take to the roads. Shouldn't we let them have their fun and focus on other issues like car traffic congestion and better transit?
Perhaps in my bid for verbal hyperbole and effect, I've come off as anti cyclist and a bit harsher than I really am. So, my apologies to my longtime readers!
Nothing could be further from the truth.
I have no problem with bikes, and my brother rides his all the time so of course I don't want to see anyone get hurt by a car!
That said, I don't think to be pro-cyclist (and other mass transit and transit options) one has to be pro Criticial Mass.
Plus, I think it's important both cars and bikes observe the rules of the road so everyone can get to their destination safely.
I have to say, I'm a bit saddened to see so much attention by so many on the issues regarding CM, when in fact the only reason I even brought it up was to contrast it with the treatment by MUNI and the SFPD, which seemed a bit overboard. Did none of the CM defenders get that far down the text?
In reference to Jeffery's comment on blocking emergency vehicles. I've participated in CM before, and I've seen cyclists block/delay an Ambulence. The last time I recall seeing this was on upper Haight in June.
My apologies in advance for my candor (a trait which severely lacks here in the City):
ALLEGATION No 1.
"Of course, these emergency vehicles were headed the wrong way down the road because all the *cars* were blocking the proper right of way."
RESPONSE to No. 1 - Could it be that certain said "*cars* were blocking the right of way" because a certain mass of bicyclists were blocking a major City artery and ignoring the traffic signals appurtenant thereto?
Moreover, even when there is no traffic, emergency vehicles still go against the flow of traffic.
Talk to the DPT if you have a problem with one way streets. Which you don't, 'cause you're on a bike. This means you think you can violate the Vehicle Code and go against traffic whenever you want.
ALLEGATION No. 2.
"When was the last time you saw a traffic jam consisting of automobiles move out of its way for an ambulance?"
RESPONSE to No. 2 - Every time I hear a siren, whereupon emergency vehicles roll by. More specifically: today.
CONCLUSION
I have no problems with cyclists who follow the rules of the road.
I always look out for them; specifically when I must merge into the bike lane prior to turning onto another street (and yield the cyclist the right of way prior to doing so).
It's unfortunate that you seem to think self-righteousness excuses adherence to the law.
I kindly refer you to subdivision (a) of Section 21200 of the California Vehicle Code:
"(a) Every person riding a bicycle upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle"
Not to "tip your hand," but note that the law doesn't just give you "rights," it also requires your adherence. Take another look if you don't believe me.
Best,
Mr. Feasor
PS: Excellent blog entry, Greg. I'll get you a shoe-polishing kit if you want me to...I feel your pain.
My first thought on this post was that the party-goers were guilty of the crime of trying to make a MUNI ride fun! We certainly cannot have that now, can we? The inspectors went way too far in looking for trouble where none was to be found.
As far as critical mass is concerned, I think it does more harm than good because of the stop sign and red light running. A rude or agressive driver is not going to be more likely to brake for a yellow light after seeing hundreds or thousands of bikes stream through red lights down Market Street on a Friday night. I think a ride where all cyclists took care to obey the signs and lights would be much more effective.
I do not cycle regularly now, but I used to commute by bike when I lived closer to work. I do most of my SF errands on foot or by MUNI, saving the car for grocery shopping trips. I am well aware of the problems caused by aggressive and especially inattentive drivers in our beloved city.
Great post. I love bikes, but Critical Mass drives me nuts -- for example, the way they refuse to let busses through, forcing bus passengers to roll slowly along at 5 mph. The story about the Muni party is also infurating ... maybe someone should organize a party on one of the routes that see lots of REAL disruptions, thereby providing them with opportunities to ticket actual criminals -- I know I see a ridiculous amount of fare evasion in Chinatown, for example. It would be fun to throw a party as bait for fare inspectors to come and do their actual job.
My mother, who moved to SF in the early 60's, tells me stories about how San Franciscans used to take the cable cars TO WORK. Natives USED THESE THINGS as TRANSIT! Now, my mother isn't given to making up stories or exaggeration, so I believe her...but can you imagine cable cars as a viable means of public transport (that is, transporting folks who aren't rich and/or tourists)?
If someone doesn't buy your desk by this weekend, I'll take it. I'm waiting for my CityCarShare fob to check out a Tacoma for an ikea run, and I was going to buy that exact same desk. :)
@jamison - I agree! Although I think the 38 is due for some more coverage. But I'm still on the N-line, just not in the Inner Sunset, and my move is a temp move.
I like all of the City's neighborhoods and have lived in several (as well as in Marin County, which I also enjoy despite the fact I had to drive EVERYWHERE) but I think I'm more or less destined to be a westsider.
oh and btw, congrats on your appointment by the Mayor! Glad to have you there representing the People!
I ran into the resulting transit debacle from this tragedy, but haven't been able to find ANY news on it today. One news station had a blurb and said that the individual was actually trapped under the car but was not killed, and was taken to the hospital. No idea if they survived.
They closed both tracks between Van Ness and Castro, and were stacking up the N and J trains above ground for a while. While the fire engines were everywhere, I will say that the fire marshal deserves a big boo for parking practically in the middle of the street, making it almost impossible for the single lane of cars (and F trains and buses that were shuttling people along the closed route) to pass by. At one point in the middle of the whole mess, an F train came off the wire right in the middle of the intersection, at which point I think everyone just gave up.
My boyfriend and I had gotten on the F-line at Sanchez, just in time to watch the fire trucks pile up from the streetcar window. We found out about the suicide from all the people who'd been down there to see it.
Muni reacted quickly to this one though, shuttle busses up and down Market were running within half an hour.
I'm more interested in the human aspect to this kind of thing - of all the ways one could take their life, this would seem to be one of the most painful and agonizing ways to do it. It's unfortunate with all that we have here in the city to help folks, we can't reach all of 'em before they make a decision like this.
I think that when a person's mind is consumed by thoughts of suicide, their perception of (and aversion to) pain and agony are separated somewhat from reality.
I've always thought that it might be helpful to have signs near suicide-prone spots (like trains, and the Bridge) quoting the Rilo Kiley song: "Everyone fucks up/It's gonna be okay."
A friend of mine committed suicide about a month ago by jumping off the 20th floor of the Fox Plaza Bldg. I can't imagine actually having witnessed it - it was hard enough finding out about him killing himself. After reading this post, I can only imagine how traumatic witnessing that must have been.
If this was a private sector employee, he or she would probably get fired if Daly complained.
Unfortunately, I have been experiencing a rash of this kind of in appropriate behavior lately.
When I flew couple of weeks ago, as I was checking my luggage the agent helping the man at the adjacent counter commented on the fact that he smelled like cigarette smoke. I think the comment was "someone just had a cigarette", accompanied by a wave of her hand. Although he did smell strongly like smoke, it seemed completely inappropriate to make such a comment about a customer.
Meanwhile, MY agent didn't hear my flight number correctly and said to me "I don't think we can help you, you've missed your flight!" I beg to differ, my flight doesn't leave for 2 hours. And if I had missed my flight, is this the kind of treatment I would receive as an elite status customer of this airline?
The last time I shopped at Trader Joe's, the checkout clerk commented that I bought "a lot." What is that supposed to mean? Whether I am feeding just me or a family of 8, her job is to scan my items, not comment on the quantity.
Small talk is fine, but commenting on a customer's appearance, purchases or whatever is in appropriate.
Excellent points, as always. If a person does not have the proper mental filters to think, "wait a minute, I'm about to do something stupid; I should probably stop now," then driving a trolley probably isn't an advisable line of work.
I find it hilarious that Chris Daly gets pissed that a MUNI driver said a few things that frankly alot of SF citizens think (politicians are out for one thing, keeping their pathetic jobs, period).
Rembember, this is the same dude that screams obsinities at anyone that disagrees with him... The fact is, if he rode MUNI on a regular basis, he would encounter much worst that this. And if that happened, he would be complaining about things (and maybe solving) things that us "regular" folks would like to see improve (late arrivals, being passed up, dirty buses, fare jumpers, etc).
I've come to believe that MUNI simply does not care how disrespectful its drivers are - period.
I ride the 29 daily to work into the Presidio. Unlike most routes, the 29 is really two, as every other bus actually goes into the Presidio. The others just stop at Baker Beach.
So, one morning, as I was waiting for the bus at Vicente and Sunset, two 29's roll in back to back. The front bus was a Presidio bus, the rear Baker Beach. As the 29 approached the stop, she switched lanes and cruised on by. I got onto the Baker Beach bus and fortunately the driver was nice enough to catch up so I could switch to the Presidio 29 during a red light (wonderful that I have to run out in traffic to catch my bus). The Baker Beach driver as well as MUNI (who I had been on the phone with) told me to tell the driver not to skip my stop.
I did this, although I was frustrated and out of breath from having to run (which probably came across in my tone of voice). As soon as I did, the driver told me that I had an attitude problem and that unless I got off, the bus was going out of service. I didn't challenge it, but called MUNI back again to file another report.
Two days later, she had the gall to ask me "if my attitude had improved."
Despite the letter I recieved telling me that MUNI "values customer service", I see her driving the route everyday. I can't fathom employees of a private corporation a) not doing their job and b) being rude to their customers and getting to keep their job. It should have been grounds for immediate dismissal.
I continually wonder why I bother buying a pass each month. No one polices the riders boarding via the back door, and the chance of seeing a fare inspector is so low that it's probably not even worth it anymore.
I got one of those last week, it's about the size of an N-Scale train, I bet you could cut up the articulation and rig it up over a locomotive and another car.
Comments
It's completely appropriate for Muni to use the Next Bus signs to let us know when Metro shuts down. There will be tourists and infrequent riders who only discover it this way, probably when they walk up to a platform or shelter at four in the afternoon to head somewhere they won't be coming back from until after 10:00pm. The 22 connects with the metro lines, so the same applies here too.
What is wrong is sending you off to a web site to look for information, they should make the information available at the shelter with the system map.
What's also very, very wrong is telling people the Metro system shuts down at 10:00pm, when some lines are shutting down closer to 9:30. It's one thing to be shutting down the subway system absurdly early, it's an entirely different thing to lie to riders about when that is.
Then there are those damn signs themselves. There have to be better LED displays on the market. These are too small to read at even a modest distance (and I'm someone with perfect vision!) especially when the text scrolls. Better LED signs are not cheap, but there are worth it (think multiline, multicolor signs which can have one line dedicated to messages while the other is always showing the next train, even counting down the seconds until it arrives)
Posted by: Jamison | February 21, 2006 4:40 PM
thanks for commeting in the beta version of the new site! eventually the site's graphics will be a bit more unique, and the layout will be less generic...
It's fine if Muni wants to tell us when the subway shuts down, I agree.
It is NOT great when doing so obliterates the prime function of the sign, which is to tell people the number of minutes until the next train or bus arrives.
They need to decide something and stick with it so people know what to expect. Otherwise using it becomes that much more of a hassle when it need not be.
Posted by: Greg Dewar | February 21, 2006 4:47 PM
I'm an interaction designer (for the company which makes the same Movable Type running your new site) and transit is a side interest of mine (my last entry was about the MTC and I've also been fooling with my own fantasy muni metro expansion map and I've started writing an article about the importance of predictability and eliminating doubt when using transit.
Predictability and status are really the key. Once those get set as a priority the decisions to support that become easier (such as what you display on those signs, and if you have more than one very important piece of information to display justifies getting two-line signs)
Posted by: Jamison | February 21, 2006 5:20 PM
Very cool on both counts!
Maybe you can help me and Mason Powell (our soon to be regular contributor) move the archives from Journalspace properly....we keep getting just one thing wrong....MT is a superior system to our old platform though, and we really like controlling our destiny via domains and whatnot....still....
Posted by: Greg Dewar | February 21, 2006 7:14 PM
The problem is that the NextBus signs spend only about 2 of every 10 seconds showing the next train time. The other 8 seconds are spent on the subway closing announcement and the web site address. It really is a poor usage of the limited screen space.
I think it makes more sense to use NextBus for temporary announcements, such as today's gas leak that forced a bus bridge on the N-Judah. That is very useful information for riders because they could opt to try and find a different way to their destination.
Since this is a long term project, why couldn't they just mount permanent signs in the shelters and not use the NextBus screen space? I must admit, however, that I first learned of the Metro closures via the NextBus announcements, which started about a week before the closures.
Posted by: Mike | February 24, 2006 2:13 PM
I can't find any news references yet, but there were at least two Muni incidents on Saturday. A 1-California trolley was in a collision with a new SUV of some sort--it didn't even have plates yet--near CPMC in Laurel Heights.
An N-Judah train was involved in something near the Ocean Beach end of the line. I couldn't tell what happened, but an ambulance was on the scene when I was in the area. There was a bus bridge up to Sunset where the trains were turning back. A poor woman in a wheelchair had to load into the bus, go a few stops, unload from the bus, load into the train and unload at her final stop. Ugh.
Posted by: Mike | February 26, 2006 3:26 AM
I hear you. The second car of the N has been given up to random street crazies and hippies on permenent vacation. There's no way to not let these people on...somehow I wish you could swipe your Fastpass to get on the second car, but I realize that's way unrealistic.
The comment from Maggie Lynch is priceless...maybe if she actually rode Muni herself she'd have a better handle on the going rate.
Posted by: JH | February 28, 2006 1:50 PM
Of course, more inspectors would help, but maybe some other solutions are needed to boost farebox revenues. I think proof of payment on ALL lines, is needed (It will keep the inspectors busy at least). Think of how many more fare evasion tickets could be written on the buses!
Along with this, stop calling them transfers! Call them what they really are. Tickets. Get people in the habit of getting a ticket, not "asking for a transfer". That sounds like it's not needed.
Finally, when all else fails, and Deadbeat Hippie and Anita Bonghit get on the train, have the fare inspectors open the doors at the next stop, and physically throw the bums off. Then announce to the crowd "No Ticket" in the style of the zeppelin scene in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade"
Posted by: Mason Powell | February 28, 2006 3:00 PM
Saying stop removal is "soviet-like" is how we ended up with the level of service we have.
Muni can't be improved if stop removal isn't an option, or if even line consolidation isn't an option.
We need someone taking a holistic look at Muni and service and how to improve it. I think it speaks well of Nathaniel Ford he recognizes Muni can't do that themselves and hired on outside firm that's going to look at it objectively so Muni staff can't point fingers at traffic and everyone else on earth can't just tell muni to fix service without removing stops, changing routes or magically make lights turn green (transit signaling is a SFCTA thing, not something Muni can do themselves)
SPUR pointed out combining some of the redundant lines left over from the 1955 Market Street Railway buyout could mean more service along the unified line.
Posted by: Jamison | February 28, 2006 4:26 PM
I agree completely, and fully support SPUR's recommendations, which include consolidation, etc.
My comment was not to suggest we rule out all stop removals forever (something some of our supervisors engage in, facts be damned) more like a tongue in cheek comment that sure, you can make a system run "faster" if you simply remove most of those pesky stops! :-)
Sometimes comments like that don't come off in print like they would in person...
Posted by: Greg Dewar | February 28, 2006 5:19 PM
Of course, one thing I forgot to mention was "loaders". In the old days, Muni would have people at busy stops collecting fares then allowing people to board through exit doors. It would also use bus space more efficiently. Why have people onto an already full 30 Stockton or 38 Geary when another one is usually behind it nearly empty? Loaders could control the distribution of people and get their $1.50 at the same time (and issue them their ticket!)
Posted by: Mason Powell | March 1, 2006 10:36 PM
It looks great so far!
Posted by: Neela | March 4, 2006 2:37 PM
hey it's looking really fantastic in here.
me had fun bb
xo
Posted by: Vivix | March 24, 2006 1:16 AM
I love Osha Thai. It stays open very late, too, and that's great in this city where everything seems to close by 10 p.m.
Posted by: Neela | March 24, 2006 2:15 PM
It looks great! Wishing you the best on this new site!
Posted by: Neela | March 28, 2006 7:36 PM
your site looks great!
Posted by: Tiffany | March 29, 2006 6:22 PM
I am a San Francisco native culturally forlorned in San Diego, reminiscing my childhood across the St. from the Market St. Safeway and the Mint. Your site is what I miss about home. The N Judah Chronicles brings me back. BEST of LUCK!
Posted by: clevgrl | March 30, 2006 8:34 PM
Here's another one.
Posted by: Jef Poskanzer | March 31, 2006 7:42 AM
hey...I am starting to feel better...Sunday matinee? I am jonesing to see the V...me so bummed I missed this outing, poopers.
Posted by: vivix | March 31, 2006 2:40 PM
Great links! My partner and I live on Judah and love having easy access to the 'N'. I will be reading this blog regularly.
Posted by: Matt Cameron | April 3, 2006 12:58 PM
Great reading, keep up the great posts.
Peace, JiggaDigga
Posted by: JiggaDigga | April 6, 2006 9:37 PM
As a Giants season ticket holder (and not a MUNI passholder), I got used to buying passes onboard on my way to the park (from Cole/Carl), then from the tables outside the park after the game. Apparently, MUNI can't be bothered anymore and scrapped the tables. They put the task on the Giants now, who opened two ticket windows. Yes. TWO ticket windows for 42,000 people. Some have cars, some have passes, but the lines after today's game show that they really screwed the pooch with this decision. And in reference to the post, you cannot buy a pass onboard on the way home, nor from the ticket machines. You must wait in line at the stadium with the rest of the people who will soon find other ways to get to the park. Bad move, MUNI.
Posted by: Matt | April 7, 2006 2:08 AM
Yikes! I'd assumed one could still get them at the farebox. Thanks for the update - and no thanks to Muni for finding a new way to piss off riders!
Posted by: Greg Dewar | April 7, 2006 9:45 AM
This is hilarious....keep up the good work for our neighborhood!
Posted by: Ben Casnocha | April 7, 2006 10:08 PM
Kennedy's: $2 Guinness, Chicken Pakoras, Air Hockey.....there is heaven on earth!!!
Woo to the Hoo...me heart K's
Posted by: ViVix | April 9, 2006 12:25 PM
I am the inventor and founder of NextBus, and this is my first visit to your site. My role at the company is limited now, but I can tell you that the staff is very sensitive to your thoughts. NextBus manages a very large territory and its customers are very tight. So it needs the help of those that are looking at its displays. When things aren't working right, or when you have suggestions, please email info@nextbus.com.
As to the size of the signs, they shrink fast when they go up in the air. Big ones are expensive, but well within transit budgets.
NextBus gets very little money from the Muni. It would help a lot if you let your SF Supervisor know you value the NB service.
Ken Schmier
Posted by: Ken Schmier | April 9, 2006 4:46 PM
Hi Ken
thanks for the info and the email link...I think the concept of NextBus is great and I use it all the time on my Mac. I think Muni doesn't always realize how to implement it like they did when they messed up the info on the displays.
I really think they should update the system to put Next Bus in place on all busy buses and Munis....it would make planning and anticipating a trip much easier.
Posted by: Greg Dewar | April 9, 2006 5:11 PM
Danke...for the pix creds :)
Posted by: ViVix | April 10, 2006 1:43 AM
Thank you for your comments. we appreciate the feedback. sincerly from all of us at JohnColins.
Posted by: john G | April 12, 2006 2:55 PM
I was surprised to discover there wasn't any asterisk on that "All Muni Free" heading like "does not include cable car lines"
I guess I've just gotten used to things like metro station close at 10 meaning they close at 9:35 or "there's another train right behind me" meaning a 20 minute disruption.
Posted by: Jamison | April 17, 2006 9:06 AM
Just to clear up the global misinformation, Lombard is the *second* crookedest street in SF. Vermont (by the highway, Potrero) is the actual crookedest.
Yup, the whole world propogates a mistake. :)
Posted by: rivviepop | April 20, 2006 6:40 PM
This cable car gripman is clearly the best of all: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jef/131487781/
Posted by: Jef Poskanzer | April 27, 2006 7:54 AM
Excellent! Charging for parking at transit points has never made any sense. Getting people out of their cars and onto the trains is supposed to be the raison d'etre of public transportation. In the suburbs how else are commuters to get to the stations if not by car. Suburban bus systems are not the greatest.
Another annoying problem...yesterday while waiting for just ONE 'N' downtown 6, SIX, 'Ks' went past. Distribution of cars on the MUNI rail is terrible.
Posted by: matt | May 9, 2006 1:02 PM
And then there's the homeless who just don't bathe.
I was on the second car of an inbound Judah this afternoon, where it wasn't bad enough the kids in the back half of train were so loud and obnoxious they'd driven everyone else to the front half other than the homeless guy who was telling them off, then at Stanyan another half dozen 20-something homeless kids got on, and first it was the smell of the cigarette the girl put out on the door once she was in the car, followed by all kinds of different smells while we got enjoy their pack leader talking about how he wanted to decapitate someone who'd pissed him off.
How could I ever forget: never board the second car!
Posted by: Jamison | May 17, 2006 6:37 PM
I had the chance to listen to the archive of the show (I got interrupted when NextBus came up).
One caller said that as a rider he would rather have imperfect information than no information. Both Ronn Owens and Nat Ford said they disagreed. I was somewhat disapppointed by that response. It is the response of someone who has never stood on a street corner waiting and waiting for their usual bus to come when two blocks away, the buses are running mostly on time.
Otherwise, it was definitely informative to listen to Mr. Ford answer questions.
Posted by: Mike | May 18, 2006 4:43 PM
True, but at the same time you'd hate to see the Chron or the Ex blast out a headline "NextBus Boondoggle Wrong X% of the time" and the local TV people making hay of it.
For me I judge the response, Ford was upfront and at least sounded like he was making an effort to undo the damage of previous folks. The response of the Muni's spokesperson with sarcastic remarks was not so great.
Posted by: Greg Dewar - N Judah Chronicles | May 18, 2006 5:27 PM
I've always had great service at that WaMu. Highly recommend it.
Posted by: CameronRex | May 23, 2006 1:51 PM
Hmmm...I have a slightly different opinion of you know who.
Posted by: Neela | May 24, 2006 8:48 PM
this doesn't answer your question, but...
why get off BART at Embarcadero? to save money? if you'd take it to Van Ness you might catch up with an earlier N.
Posted by: drawde | May 25, 2006 10:32 PM
Pick me, pick me! I know this one...
Ok, so the reason you hear all the announced L's, M's, K's, back to back J's, and legend has it a thing called the Castro Shuttle, and then out of nowhere suddenly there's an N-Judah is because the Voice of Muni (aka "the Muni Lady") doesn't know one's coming until it actually gets into the tunnel and into the computer controlled area.
I'm pretty sure the Voice of Muni is not powered by NextBus, because I've been looking at the screen in the Castro Station booth when the voice announces it a minute or two off what NextBus says.
Posted by: Jamison | May 25, 2006 11:04 PM
Hi there,
The previous person who answered, Jamison, explained the reason. It's because outbound N-Judahs come in from outside the subway. The "voice of Muni" can't recognize anything that's outside the subway.
There is a large train location board at Embarcadero Station. If you look at it, occasionally, you will see something stirring at the east end of the mimic board. This is an N train entering the subway.
Peter Ehrlich
retired Muni streetcar operator
Posted by: Peter Ehrlich | May 26, 2006 9:19 AM
Thanks to all of you for your informative comments! I learn something new everyday. And thanks for reading too! I appreciate it! :-)
Posted by: Greg Dewar | May 31, 2006 11:10 PM
Aw, thanks, Greg! We aren't done with the series yet -- we're just giving our readers a little bit of a break. Keep reading for more from Mr. Ford!
Posted by: Eve | June 5, 2006 7:24 PM
Heh...I love doing that on the N going through the tunnel to Carl & Cole. I also do it on BART between Civic Center and 16th Street. Public transportation surfing is a must if you don't want to touch the germ-ridden poles in the trains.
Posted by: Chad | June 14, 2006 6:27 PM
Sounds like you did half of SF in one day!
Posted by: Neela | June 22, 2006 7:24 PM
I have had the same thoughts - spare the air and other free muni days are just a MAJOR inconvenience to those that actually ride muni every day. Schedules are even more likely to be f-ed up and the ride is all the more overcrowded. ugh! Even more so, if they are expecting these free-riders to convert, they should maybe consider providing a slightly better user experience than having an N only every 20 plus minutes at rush hour on on a game day.
Posted by: cat | June 23, 2006 2:58 PM
I must say, I do enjoy reading your N Judah Chronicles. And I can picture them so clearly because I ride them all the time. (Hell I live in Inner Sunset too, we could be neighbors. How creepy!) That lady rider makes an excellent point. I paid for a full month's worth of transit for that fast pass, I want a discount on next month's!
Posted by: T | June 23, 2006 9:23 PM
Ogeez. I can't even count how many times this has happened to me!! The one thing I don't miss about SF is the MUNI!
Posted by: bayareb2b | June 28, 2006 9:47 AM
Yeah, but he's *not* in the blog yet. A name! We want a name!
Posted by: Patrick Calahan | June 28, 2006 3:24 PM
Oh I'll be namin' names just as soon as my attorney advises me on the wherefores and how-tos of it all.
Let's just say that taking on Muni is a lot safer than taking on dishonest taxi cab companies. Those frakkers are low rent and lowdown, and think the gutter is the high road!
Posted by: Greg Dewar - N Judah Chronicles | June 28, 2006 6:15 PM
Greg,
Use canvas. They are stronger and better for the environment. Jeez, what kind of liberal are you? I'm sure you could get a blank one and put your own self-aggrandizing logo on it.
Btw, It's great to find you again. More surly and obnoxious but that's what I love and would expect.
Posted by: Hel | June 29, 2006 8:32 PM
Very funny. I light my lighter in honor of your snark.
Oh and canvas bags suck all the balls ever. You can NEVER get at 12-er of Pabst in those fucking things.
Cheers!
Posted by: Greg Dewar | June 29, 2006 10:28 PM
On one of the rainy days last year...the REAL rainy days I was waiting at the stop at 16th and Judah when a train came by and stopped. I and another "potential" rider pushed the button on the last door in the last car and it didn't open. We turned to walk to the next door and the MUNI left without us. Did the driver check his mirrors? The next train, nearly empty, didn't even stop...just kept going. Made me think that the drivers were enjoying some private joke of leaving riders standing in the pouring rain.
Posted by: Cameronrex | June 30, 2006 4:04 PM
That whack job that's now trying to stop the Geary busway also tried to stop Octavia Boulevard and rebuild the Central Freeway with his "Save the Central Freeway" group.
Posted by: Jamision | July 18, 2006 7:50 AM
I do kind of wish there was some way to compensate those of us with passes. I spend $179.25 a month on my combined Caltrain/Muni pass. I would love to get a couple bucks off.
I had Monday off so this time I made sure to go somewhere near a BART station so I could feel like I got a little benefit from all this.
Posted by: Mike | July 19, 2006 9:26 PM
I'm scared. This warm weather in summer in San Francisco is not natural.
It's just... not.
I'm sure it's a sign of the apocalypse.
Posted by: T | July 20, 2006 9:55 PM
I take it you trekked up that hill with the stairs for those Sunset shots. Forgive me, I don't know the name of it.
I attempted to, but I gave up as I hit the base.
Posted by: T | July 24, 2006 9:42 AM
While I too enjoy deadbeats getting caught on MUNI. I do have to let you know that the fare gates (especially at the Montgomery Station) downtown ARE NOT ALWAYS staffed in the day. Also, the fare gates at many of these unstaffed enterances are broken and don't take coins either. I'm not defending this guy, he probably is as bad as you make him out to be, but his excuse does make some sense if you go check the facts.
Posted by: TheRobin | July 24, 2006 10:21 AM
Indeed we did. It's a bit of climb but once you're up there it is really nice. Very quiet too. It's amazing how quiet some city neighborhoods can be. And we were just a couple of blocks from my house!
Posted by: Greg Dewar | July 24, 2006 11:41 AM
Well, I can only go on experience and what Muni tells me, but the faregates aren't "broken" but they are set to not accept coins when an agent isn't there. In the Downtown stations, when there is only one agent they are always in the west end of the station, according to Muni. I have always been able to find one. Maybe this isn't always the most practical setup, especially at Montgomery, where I always seem to end up on the eastern side and have to make the walk to the other end. I still think ol' Chip just didn't want to make the effort to go to the other gate.
Posted by: Mason Powell | July 24, 2006 12:37 PM
Nice Pictures of that big ole city...I'm sure glad that you finally posted some pictures of them ole N-Judah trains, cuz we here in Oklahoma never seen trains like that...I wuz thinkin that it looked like them ole Amtrak trains...Oh and by the way, I'm not too sure that Mason Powell is a real name!? Aint that some local street names? Sounds a bit bogus to an old timer like myself...Anyway, keep up the good work!
Posted by: Reid Crazyhorse | July 24, 2006 2:19 PM
"Mason Powell" is a nom de plum, and yes you are correct, they are in fact street names.
Posted by: Greg Dewar | July 24, 2006 2:24 PM
Broken faregates will soon be even less of an excuse.
Translink machines are being installed and soon buying a ticket (they should call them tickets, I think the idea of calling it a "transfer" or even worse a "receipt" makes it sound optional in the first place) can be done with cash or credit card instead of exact change.
Posted by: Jamison | July 24, 2006 3:54 PM
I never really liked them plums anyway...I didn't realize you could grow plums in san francisco...So how long has Mason been a plum grower? If I ever make it to that big ole city, I'll be sure to stop by Mason's orchard...Good day...
Posted by: Reid Crazyhorse | July 25, 2006 10:34 AM
As you pointed out, Muni can only make muni by cutting service and driving away riders because they loose money on every rider. In fact fares only account for about 25% of Muni's yearly revenue.
It creates a system in which riders are a drain on the system. Managers and planners are in an unfortunate position choosing between cutting service and raising fares. Those most dedicated to their job are going to be the ones who are going to be most discouraged. Add to that outside political pressure telling them they can't do either.
So I've had this idea kicking around for a while...
Set aside privatization and that editorial, particularly the quotes from Jane Jacobs, has a point about making Muni competitive. That means Muni needs to have a vested interest in attracting riders with good and fast service.
This is where the private sector has something to offer. A business depends on sales of products and services to make money and that means (in most cases) they have to make the customer happy. Now if Muni were to make money off every rider instead of loosing it, they'd have a reason to improve service.
No, I'm not suggesting hiking fares, but while rider fares are about 25% of Muni's budget, the City provides about 30% through DTP fines and fees, a majority of Muni funding.
If Muni received those DPT funds on a matching basis, cutting ridership would also cut revenue, not the other way around. Caltrain receives a lot more of it's funding directly through fares and matching funds, so last year when they were facing a deficit they increased service by (I think it was) 10 trains a day to attract more riders (though it did come along with a fare increase)
Posted by: Jamison | July 26, 2006 5:02 PM
That was a great story. I've seen this play out in a different fashion once--some well-dressed young woman tried to put in 1.25, instead of 1.50, and made a big stink when the operator told her she was a quarter short. I understand being short a quarter, and twice in my Muni riding life I gave a quarter (once .50 cents to an obvious tourist who seemed to think there was a change machine on the 71). Anyway, I wonder what's up with this apparent sense of entitlement that these obviously-not-poor "YITs" seem to have?
Posted by: Josh Krist | July 27, 2006 10:25 AM
I am so glad the story this story decides to target the young generation who are rich. Basically someone who can afford to pay the insane $100+ dollar fine and the younger generation who we can't seem to tolerate because they haven't been beaten down yet. What a great collection of quick judgements.
I think we can have a more productive conversation than complaining about what you call deadbeats and hippies. We should be focusing on all the people who are driving their cars by themselves up 101 (and in the city)for example. 70%-80% are driving by themselves. The city should be working towards making Muni free instead of ticketing people who aren't polluting and clogging up the streets.
Posted by: Chris Brainard | July 28, 2006 9:27 AM
The mayor and the sup are excellent politicians, I must admit, but I didn't feel that anything was really solved other than "hey, we're listening to your little complaints". The turn out was pretty good ("best we've had" ), but I was pretty disappointed by the entire event beyond the crazy questions the residents asked.
90% of the questions submitted on paper were about the BRT -- obviously the hot topic of the meeting. It was hardly addressed though. I would figure a bunch of construction and rail..er... I mean bus lanes being installed would be more important than say, sex and coyotes in GGP.
Posted by: Mark Ballew | August 1, 2006 10:13 PM
Excellent points, to be sure. Now, to be fair, the questions submitted on paper were to be guaranteed an answer from Mr. Mayor and Mr. Supervisor.
That said, I agree. A Bus Rapid Transit is not a perfect solution - it is at best a happy compromise.
But, the Geary BRT is in only the earliest of study stages. Nothing is going to happen without a lot o' people's support. And the hope is that a BRT NOW will mean a rail transit on the B-Geary in the future.
Unfortunately, Rail means FEDERAL dollars and lets face it the morons in the feds want money for crack whores or something....hehe
Posted by: Greg Dewar | August 1, 2006 10:25 PM
Because I'm so sure I wept at the loss of my hipster status when I moved from Haight to the Avenues. Pft. (10th is considered the Avenues? I always thought 19 and out were.)
I'd rather be a nerd paying a decent rent for more space than being cool and sharing a closet in a communal house that constantly reeks of weed.
Posted by: T | August 2, 2006 8:56 AM
That is so funny it is almost criminal. Thanks.
Of course, I probably seem like an edgehog because I hate sitting next to the window, but I will allow someone into the other seat and when I see a bus or train filling up, I turn to the side so someone can get in.
Posted by: Mike | August 3, 2006 9:10 PM
Funny, the sex act lady talked my wife and my ears off in Strybing Arboretum last week. It must have been her, as she was only semi-coherent and very concerned about taking back the park from all those lewd folks that I never see (and I live next to the park).
Posted by: Dolan Halbrook | August 3, 2006 9:23 PM
I've seen that before and it made me laugh.
I wish it told me how to deal with freaky Glass-Eyed stalkers on Muni buses that like to grab and touch you.
Because, believe it or not, I have this problem now.
Posted by: T. | August 4, 2006 12:50 AM
This is hysterical. So true. Thanks!
Posted by: muniblowschunks | August 4, 2006 9:26 AM
I take Muni to the Zoo...Sometimes I don't leave the train because I've seen all the wildlife that I need to see.
Posted by: Rowland Davis | August 4, 2006 12:10 PM
How about those lovely edgehogs who won't even get up to let you pass and expect you to somehow levitate to the empty seat? Maybe I should start crawling over them instead!
Posted by: jen | August 8, 2006 9:55 AM
Rather be here than experiencing the East Coast Indian Summer.
Humidity? Heck no.
Posted by: T. | August 9, 2006 9:40 AM
I thought this was very funny until I saw the comments about Chinese people. I know the elderly and recently-arrived Chinese can be rude and pushy, and I've been known to joke about it myself. They come from a different place and culture where that kind of behavior is necessary and ordinary. The 30 Stockton is especially hairy in this regard. But to generalize these characteristics to all Chinese people is racist.
Posted by: Karen | August 10, 2006 4:44 PM
Karen, I think you raise a good point - to be honest I was a little uncomfortable about that last bit. But I decided to post it anyone to
a) find out who made it (since I found it online at LiveJournal)
and b) spark some discussion.
Posted by: Greg Dewar | August 11, 2006 11:20 AM
Great post (and great blog) Greg.
I will definitely check out Essential Foods soon.
I had a similar experience to you walking home from UCSF to Funston/Judah (where I live). Was just walking on Irving when I noticed that new Malaysian restaurant in the basement of some building. I forget the name already. It's between 5th and 6th maybe? But it's amazing what you notice when you hop of the Muni and start walking sometimes.
As for Andronico's I have a love-hate relationship with it. But on the whole, I find that shopping at Park's on 10th and Irving for produce, Andronico's for meat and Amazon Grocery for processed/bulk items is my current plan of action (oh and I *love* the 22nd and Irving produce market - they always have great fruit at great prices).
Posted by: Dave | August 22, 2006 10:29 AM
Howdy neighbor!
The Lime Tree is apparently really good, even though it's in a bit of a strange spot in the downstairs of that building. The Essential Foods folks recommended it.
Park's does have good produce, good catch!
Posted by: Greg Dewar | August 22, 2006 12:29 PM
Thanks for the tip on the new store. I'll have to make a trip out there to check it out.
Posted by: Neela | August 22, 2006 11:56 PM
Well I swung by Essential Foods this morning. It's a cute little shop. For its size, the selection is decent. As for a price comparison, they're cheaper than Andronico's from what I could see.
I bought a package of Fig Newmans for 3.79 (usually 4.50+ at Andronico's) and a $3 bag of pita chips (usually $4 at Andronico's). So on the whole, I'm happy with this new addition.
Also noticed that the travel agency further along the block is completely gone from the storefront on Irving and 6th. Here's hoping that something more interesting than a travel agency replaces it.
And re: the Lime Tree (thanks for reminding me of the name). It is good. I tried it a couple of weeks back. It's not fancy, but good for a quick bite or take-out.
Posted by: Dave | August 23, 2006 4:47 PM
A pub crawl would be awesome on the N! You should try and have it a bit of a take-over and a bit of a crawl. Maybe a cool theme or something would be fun too.
Posted by: TheRobin | August 25, 2006 3:49 PM
What's funny is that I know the exact fare inspector you're talking about, and honestly she seems pretty cool most of the time. I'm surprised she lost her cool, but Lordie knows what kind of pre-ride frenzy the fare inspectors were whipped into. Also, it's funny that you touched on Critical Mass (partly becuase I became so disgusted with Muni I've become a bike rider so have been thinking a lot about the politics/etiquette of non-motorized transportation in this city) because before I became a bike rider I thought Critical Mass was a cool idea (in my mind it was making a statement about the sheer volume, or "mass" of bicyclists) but now that I ride there are enough of us on the main thorougfares where our presence during commute hours is a pretty good statement on the practicality and ease of biking. Now that I ride, I've heard enough stories from friends of mine who tell me they don't like those "damn bicyclists" and when I dig deeper, two reasons for their contempt come out. One, they had a bad experience with Critical Mass--one person I know had her car spit on, others were simply held up in traffic when all they wanted to do was get home after a long week. Two, the way that bicyclists run stop signs pisses off and scares drivers. What it comes down to is that nobody is above common decency or civil discourse. I don't like cars either, (it doesn't help that I was dragged by a truck once when I got hit from behind on my motorcycle) but what this city needs--on Muni, from bicyclists, from cars, is the realization that we're all on this densely packed peninsula together and none of us--people on bicycles, the bums barfing on your shoes, the drivers on cell phones, are entitled to disregard the comfort, safety, and dignity of others. Well, it's Sunday so that's my sermon. Thanks for the thought-provoking post!
Posted by: Josh Krist | August 27, 2006 2:32 PM
hi Josh!
Thank you for your comments...they are a appreciated.
I think you raise some points, but for me common sense and a rational assessment of situations is what is missing.
I don't hate bicycles or bicyclists as a group - heck my brother rides his bike a lot on the Peninsula and I'd hate it if he got hit by a care. BUT - he also obeys the rules of the road, including stopping at stop signs, which bicyclists in this city do at their own peril given the topography of city roads.
With regards to the (many) fare inspectors - whatever they were told was bullshit. These folks came to the scene treating paying customers/riders/citizens like criminals assumed guilty before presumed innocent, and frankly, that's bullshit.
As we have posted previously we support the role of fare inspectors, but this was not one of those situations where it was necessary to do the hardass bullshit routine. Common sense, including the fact everyoen was HOLDING A FRAKKING TRANSFER IN THEIR HAND should have made them realize they were needed elsewhere. These were NOT those loser anarchists who have caused damage on our mass transit.
Thanks though for posting and engaging in some dialogue (I mean it, I"m not being sarcastic) - that is one of the duties of this site :-)
Posted by: Greg Dewar - N Judah Chronicles | August 27, 2006 4:08 PM
Well, now I'm sort of glad I missed out on the MuniParty. Nothing urks me more than law enforcement that over-extend their privledges. This is another clear cut case of the misallocation of resources and political allingments. As the Cron pointed out, the cyclists have a lot of political clout, maybe this would point to why CM has free reign every last Friday of the month?
On that same note, I'd like to say I'm very much pro-cyclist and the city needs a group to push for more bike lines, lockups, and criminal punishment for stealing bikes. I just wish they wouldn't abuse their power much like you showed in your Muni Theater.
Posted by: Mark Ballew | August 27, 2006 8:08 PM
Thanks for telling the tale so well of our Friday night frivolity! Great post, not to mention the awesome On Notice.
Have you started traveling with a basketball hoop yet? It's only a matter of time, you know...
Posted by: Eric C. | August 28, 2006 9:48 AM
Greg,
It's too bad you had to bring up that old false canard about Critical Mass blocking ambulances. That tips your hand that you either weren't really watching, or you just like to make things up to hurl at the riders. I was in that ride and the mass pulled over quite quickly and easily for a fire engine and later an ambulance. Of course, these emergency vehicles were headed the wrong way down the road because all the *cars* were blocking the proper right of way. When was the last time you saw a traffic jam consisting of automobiles move out of its way for an ambulance?
Critical Mass means different things to different people, but to me the point of CM is to demonstrate that, although 5000 cars headed to the same place would be a disaster, 5000 bicycles pass by without incident in a few minutes. It's a demonstration of why the bicycle is more suited to city life than the car. And the way the Mass can easily get out of the way of emergency vehicles is one facet of that demonstration.
Posted by: Jeffrey W. Baker | August 28, 2006 11:04 AM
Hey Josh,
I've been a fan of the N-Judah Chronicles for quite some time.
I am a car commuter, N-Judah commuter and Caltrain commuter.
Your perspective seems a bit too anti-cyclist.
You write, "But this is San Francisco, where the police escort the lawbreakers, it seems. Critical Massholes can take comfort that no matter how big a pack of jerks they are, no one can stop them."
As a pedestrian who has been hit by a car that ran a redlight: http://www.cyphgen.com/img/accident.jpg
I think the bigger danger is redlight runners, and cars. I don't see cyclists as a threat. Each one of them is one more parking space I can have in this city. Many car drivers are law breakers who speed and don't stop at stop signs. Many car drivers in the Bay Area drive more wrecklessly and dangerously here than on the East Coast.
Here's what I'd like to work with folks on:
1) Better transit
2) More folks who drive nice like in Maryland. Even during a rush hour with lots of cars, Marylanders give each other space.
Cheers,Barce
It's one day a month that these cyclists take to the roads. Shouldn't we let them have their fun and focus on other issues like car traffic congestion and better transit?
Cheers,
Barce
Posted by: Barce | August 28, 2006 2:43 PM
Perhaps in my bid for verbal hyperbole and effect, I've come off as anti cyclist and a bit harsher than I really am. So, my apologies to my longtime readers!
Nothing could be further from the truth.
I have no problem with bikes, and my brother rides his all the time so of course I don't want to see anyone get hurt by a car!
That said, I don't think to be pro-cyclist (and other mass transit and transit options) one has to be pro Criticial Mass.
Plus, I think it's important both cars and bikes observe the rules of the road so everyone can get to their destination safely.
I have to say, I'm a bit saddened to see so much attention by so many on the issues regarding CM, when in fact the only reason I even brought it up was to contrast it with the treatment by MUNI and the SFPD, which seemed a bit overboard. Did none of the CM defenders get that far down the text?
Posted by: Greg Dewar - N Judah Chronicles | August 28, 2006 3:31 PM
In reference to Jeffery's comment on blocking emergency vehicles. I've participated in CM before, and I've seen cyclists block/delay an Ambulence. The last time I recall seeing this was on upper Haight in June.
Posted by: Mark Ballew | August 28, 2006 8:33 PM
Mr. J. Baker's comment requires response.
My apologies in advance for my candor (a trait which severely lacks here in the City):
ALLEGATION No 1.
"Of course, these emergency vehicles were headed the wrong way down the road because all the *cars* were blocking the proper right of way."
RESPONSE to No. 1 - Could it be that certain said "*cars* were blocking the right of way" because a certain mass of bicyclists were blocking a major City artery and ignoring the traffic signals appurtenant thereto?
Moreover, even when there is no traffic, emergency vehicles still go against the flow of traffic.
Talk to the DPT if you have a problem with one way streets. Which you don't, 'cause you're on a bike. This means you think you can violate the Vehicle Code and go against traffic whenever you want.
ALLEGATION No. 2.
"When was the last time you saw a traffic jam consisting of automobiles move out of its way for an ambulance?"
RESPONSE to No. 2 - Every time I hear a siren, whereupon emergency vehicles roll by. More specifically: today.
CONCLUSION
I have no problems with cyclists who follow the rules of the road.
I always look out for them; specifically when I must merge into the bike lane prior to turning onto another street (and yield the cyclist the right of way prior to doing so).
It's unfortunate that you seem to think self-righteousness excuses adherence to the law.
I kindly refer you to subdivision (a) of Section 21200 of the California Vehicle Code:
"(a) Every person riding a bicycle upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle"
Not to "tip your hand," but note that the law doesn't just give you "rights," it also requires your adherence. Take another look if you don't believe me.
Best,
Mr. Feasor
PS: Excellent blog entry, Greg. I'll get you a shoe-polishing kit if you want me to...I feel your pain.
Posted by: Mr. Feasor | August 28, 2006 8:40 PM
My first thought on this post was that the party-goers were guilty of the crime of trying to make a MUNI ride fun! We certainly cannot have that now, can we? The inspectors went way too far in looking for trouble where none was to be found.
As far as critical mass is concerned, I think it does more harm than good because of the stop sign and red light running. A rude or agressive driver is not going to be more likely to brake for a yellow light after seeing hundreds or thousands of bikes stream through red lights down Market Street on a Friday night. I think a ride where all cyclists took care to obey the signs and lights would be much more effective.
I do not cycle regularly now, but I used to commute by bike when I lived closer to work. I do most of my SF errands on foot or by MUNI, saving the car for grocery shopping trips. I am well aware of the problems caused by aggressive and especially inattentive drivers in our beloved city.
Posted by: Mike | August 31, 2006 1:53 PM
I don't start summer here until late September.
Because what kind of summer is it when you buy a space heater instead of an air conditioner, eh? A San Francisco one.
Posted by: T | September 1, 2006 3:45 PM
Great post. I love bikes, but Critical Mass drives me nuts -- for example, the way they refuse to let busses through, forcing bus passengers to roll slowly along at 5 mph. The story about the Muni party is also infurating ... maybe someone should organize a party on one of the routes that see lots of REAL disruptions, thereby providing them with opportunities to ticket actual criminals -- I know I see a ridiculous amount of fare evasion in Chinatown, for example. It would be fun to throw a party as bait for fare inspectors to come and do their actual job.
Posted by: mattymatt | September 7, 2006 4:51 PM
Muni: Now only 20% faster than walking!
Posted by: Mark Ballew | September 8, 2006 4:22 PM
I love that the "Critical massholes" are on notice, too!
Posted by: Neela | September 10, 2006 6:52 PM
My mother, who moved to SF in the early 60's, tells me stories about how San Franciscans used to take the cable cars TO WORK. Natives USED THESE THINGS as TRANSIT! Now, my mother isn't given to making up stories or exaggeration, so I believe her...but can you imagine cable cars as a viable means of public transport (that is, transporting folks who aren't rich and/or tourists)?
Posted by: jen | September 13, 2006 8:13 PM
You have an On Notice board?! Lucky.. I have a few transit-related suggestions if you need to fill it up.
Seriously, though. I agree wholeheartedly with your comments on the fare hike.
Posted by: jesse | September 14, 2006 9:01 AM
If someone doesn't buy your desk by this weekend, I'll take it. I'm waiting for my CityCarShare fob to check out a Tacoma for an ikea run, and I was going to buy that exact same desk. :)
Posted by: Mark Ballew | September 19, 2006 3:18 PM
Greg, you aren't moving off of the N-Judah line, are you?
I think that would be tragic.
Somehow, "K-Ingleside Chronicles" doesn't have quite the same ring.
Posted by: Eric C. | September 21, 2006 11:14 AM
@Mark - thanks for buying the desk!
@Eric - Still on the N, but just a different neighborhood. It is only for a few months while I find the ideal space in the inner sunset.
Posted by: Greg - N Judah Chronicles | September 21, 2006 2:07 PM
Having to change the name would mean a new domain name as well. I think kinglesidechronicles.com would have even less of a ring to it.
Posted by: Jamison | September 22, 2006 3:03 PM
@jamison - I agree! Although I think the 38 is due for some more coverage. But I'm still on the N-line, just not in the Inner Sunset, and my move is a temp move.
I like all of the City's neighborhoods and have lived in several (as well as in Marin County, which I also enjoy despite the fact I had to drive EVERYWHERE) but I think I'm more or less destined to be a westsider.
oh and btw, congrats on your appointment by the Mayor! Glad to have you there representing the People!
Posted by: Greg - N Judah Chronicles | September 22, 2006 3:13 PM
Way cool stuff.
Why does it feel like MUNI is made up of 90% I.M. Tired these days? Just askin'.
Posted by: Mike | September 28, 2006 1:25 AM
I ran into the resulting transit debacle from this tragedy, but haven't been able to find ANY news on it today. One news station had a blurb and said that the individual was actually trapped under the car but was not killed, and was taken to the hospital. No idea if they survived.
They closed both tracks between Van Ness and Castro, and were stacking up the N and J trains above ground for a while. While the fire engines were everywhere, I will say that the fire marshal deserves a big boo for parking practically in the middle of the street, making it almost impossible for the single lane of cars (and F trains and buses that were shuttling people along the closed route) to pass by. At one point in the middle of the whole mess, an F train came off the wire right in the middle of the intersection, at which point I think everyone just gave up.
Posted by: chris | October 15, 2006 11:07 AM
My boyfriend and I had gotten on the F-line at Sanchez, just in time to watch the fire trucks pile up from the streetcar window. We found out about the suicide from all the people who'd been down there to see it.
Muni reacted quickly to this one though, shuttle busses up and down Market were running within half an hour.
Posted by: Jamision | October 15, 2006 8:33 PM
I'm more interested in the human aspect to this kind of thing - of all the ways one could take their life, this would seem to be one of the most painful and agonizing ways to do it. It's unfortunate with all that we have here in the city to help folks, we can't reach all of 'em before they make a decision like this.
Posted by: Greg - N Judah Chronicles | October 15, 2006 8:47 PM
I think that when a person's mind is consumed by thoughts of suicide, their perception of (and aversion to) pain and agony are separated somewhat from reality.
I've always thought that it might be helpful to have signs near suicide-prone spots (like trains, and the Bridge) quoting the Rilo Kiley song: "Everyone fucks up/It's gonna be okay."
Posted by: mattymatt | October 16, 2006 12:47 PM
A friend of mine committed suicide about a month ago by jumping off the 20th floor of the Fox Plaza Bldg. I can't imagine actually having witnessed it - it was hard enough finding out about him killing himself. After reading this post, I can only imagine how traumatic witnessing that must have been.
Posted by: Julia | October 24, 2006 4:02 PM
If this was a private sector employee, he or she would probably get fired if Daly complained.
Unfortunately, I have been experiencing a rash of this kind of in appropriate behavior lately.
When I flew couple of weeks ago, as I was checking my luggage the agent helping the man at the adjacent counter commented on the fact that he smelled like cigarette smoke. I think the comment was "someone just had a cigarette", accompanied by a wave of her hand. Although he did smell strongly like smoke, it seemed completely inappropriate to make such a comment about a customer.
Meanwhile, MY agent didn't hear my flight number correctly and said to me "I don't think we can help you, you've missed your flight!" I beg to differ, my flight doesn't leave for 2 hours. And if I had missed my flight, is this the kind of treatment I would receive as an elite status customer of this airline?
The last time I shopped at Trader Joe's, the checkout clerk commented that I bought "a lot." What is that supposed to mean? Whether I am feeding just me or a family of 8, her job is to scan my items, not comment on the quantity.
Small talk is fine, but commenting on a customer's appearance, purchases or whatever is in appropriate.
Posted by: Mike | November 1, 2006 5:39 PM
Excellent points, as always. If a person does not have the proper mental filters to think, "wait a minute, I'm about to do something stupid; I should probably stop now," then driving a trolley probably isn't an advisable line of work.
Posted by: mattymatt | November 2, 2006 10:46 AM
I find it hilarious that Chris Daly gets pissed that a MUNI driver said a few things that frankly alot of SF citizens think (politicians are out for one thing, keeping their pathetic jobs, period).
Rembember, this is the same dude that screams obsinities at anyone that disagrees with him... The fact is, if he rode MUNI on a regular basis, he would encounter much worst that this. And if that happened, he would be complaining about things (and maybe solving) things that us "regular" folks would like to see improve (late arrivals, being passed up, dirty buses, fare jumpers, etc).
Posted by: TheRobin | November 2, 2006 8:20 PM
Posted by: james | November 2, 2006 10:22 PM
I've come to believe that MUNI simply does not care how disrespectful its drivers are - period.
I ride the 29 daily to work into the Presidio. Unlike most routes, the 29 is really two, as every other bus actually goes into the Presidio. The others just stop at Baker Beach.
So, one morning, as I was waiting for the bus at Vicente and Sunset, two 29's roll in back to back. The front bus was a Presidio bus, the rear Baker Beach. As the 29 approached the stop, she switched lanes and cruised on by. I got onto the Baker Beach bus and fortunately the driver was nice enough to catch up so I could switch to the Presidio 29 during a red light (wonderful that I have to run out in traffic to catch my bus). The Baker Beach driver as well as MUNI (who I had been on the phone with) told me to tell the driver not to skip my stop.
I did this, although I was frustrated and out of breath from having to run (which probably came across in my tone of voice). As soon as I did, the driver told me that I had an attitude problem and that unless I got off, the bus was going out of service. I didn't challenge it, but called MUNI back again to file another report.
Two days later, she had the gall to ask me "if my attitude had improved."
Despite the letter I recieved telling me that MUNI "values customer service", I see her driving the route everyday. I can't fathom employees of a private corporation a) not doing their job and b) being rude to their customers and getting to keep their job. It should have been grounds for immediate dismissal.
I continually wonder why I bother buying a pass each month. No one polices the riders boarding via the back door, and the chance of seeing a fare inspector is so low that it's probably not even worth it anymore.
Posted by: Sean | November 3, 2006 9:58 PM
I got one of those last week, it's about the size of an N-Scale train, I bet you could cut up the articulation and rig it up over a locomotive and another car.
Posted by: Jamison | November 6, 2006 4:54 PM