Skip to content.

City and County of San Francisco
Municipal Transportation Agency
Citizens’ Advisory Council

Thursday, July 5, 2012, at 5:30 p.m.
1 South Van Ness Avenue, 7th Floor, Union Square Conference Room
San Francisco, California

MINUTES

1. Call to Order:


Chairman Murphy called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. 

2. Roll Call:

SFMTA CAC members present at Roll Call:  Mark Ballew, Steve Ferrario,           Katie Haverkamp, Daniel Murphy, Marc Salomon, Susan Vaughan, Dan Weaver, and Frank Zepeda

SFMTA CAC members absent at Roll Call: Joan Downey and Dorris Vincent

SFMTA CAC members absent:  Art Cimento and Roland Wong

3. Announcement of prohibition of sound producing devices during the meeting.

The CAC Secretary made the announcement.

Joan Downey arrived at 5:35 p.m.

4. Approval of Minutes: 

Public Comment:

None

On motion to approve the minutes of May 3, 2012: Approved

Ayes –Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Weaver, and Zepeda

            Nayes – None

            Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Vaughan

5. Report of the Chair (For discussion only):

Chairman Murphy welcomed Frank Zepeda as a new member.  Mr. Zepeda, a mayoral appointee, gave a description of his background.

Chairman Murphy stated that the SFMTA-issued Clipper cards are no longer valid, but that Council Members may use their identification badge to ride Muni vehicles. 

6. Election of CAC Chairman and Vice Chairman

On motion to elect Daniel Murphy as Chairman: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Weaver, and Zepeda

        Nayes – None

        Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

On motion to elect Daniel Weaver as Vice Chairman: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Weaver, and Zepeda

        Nayes – None

        Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

Public Comment:

None

7. Public Comment: 

None

8. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the SFMTA Strategic Plan. (Darton Ito, Manager, Capital Planning Systems, Sustainable Streets)

Council member Ferrario suggested that the CAC’s recommended motions for the SFMTA Strategic Plan be discussed and acted upon as a whole.  Timothy Papandreou, Deputy Director, Planning & Policy, Sustainable Streets, stated that staff will incorporate recommendations into the plan.  The reports will be made quarterly to ensure accountability and transparency.

Chairman Murphy severed for separate consideration Motions 120508.03, 120508.04, and 120508.09.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

David Pilpel commented on the language used in the motions and inquired about a response to the Council’s recommendations.

Motions from OCSC meeting of May 8, 2012:

Objective 2.1.1 – Expand and refocus messaging to include all modes in pursuit of the Agency’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2018

Motion 120508.02

  The SFMTA CAC recommends that social media tools be used to deliver real-time service information, particularly regarding planned and unplanned delays or shutdowns on lines, allowing people to make alternate plans, and that the PSR process be incorporated into the Agency’s social media presence.

      Objective 2.1.6 – Create a new online and physical transportation map to show relative weight of frequent higher capacity transit services, bicycle routes and key multi-modal connections

     Motion 120508.05

The SFMTA CAC recommends that, as part of these changes, Muni should preserve and incrementally improve the existing Muni map.

        

      Objective 2.1.10 – Develop and implement customer focused program for mezzanine-level customer service interactions with the Muni station agents

     Motion 120508.06

The SFMTA CAC recommends that Muni adopt a clean, uniform look and feel for station agent booths.

Objective 2.1.12 – Develop hiring/selection process for frontline employees that is aligned with selecting candidates who will excel in customer service and retrain existing staff on customer communications

     Motion 120508.07

The SFMTA CAC recommends that public announcement systems in vehicles and stations be improved.  The SFMTA CAC recommends that operators and dispatchers receive more training in verbal communication skills, and that public announcements be made more audible and robust, and pre-recorded when possible.

     

Objective 2.1.13 – Install improve signage and customer information outside of subway stations

     Motion 120508.08

The SFMTA CAC recommends that electronic signage inside stations be upgrading as well.

     

Objective 2.2.4 – Identify opportunities to prioritize transit during regular service and special events

      Motion 120508.10

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the Agency track lessons learned from special event operations.

Objective 2.2.11 – Develop system of accountability for supervisors, controllers, Central Control, maintenance, etc.

      Motion 120508.11

The SFMTA CAC recommends that PSRs regarding service problems reflect on street supervisors, not just operators.

Objective 2.2.13 – Enforce leave paperwork deadlines

      Motion 120508.12

The SFMTA CAC recommends that, given the high rate of absenteeism at Muni, this should be made a very high priority.

Objective 2.2.15 – Improve dynamic supervision and service management, including a fully operational line management center

      Motion 120508.13

The SFMTA CAC recommends that this strategy explicitly include the route redesignation of vehicles at Embarcadero station.

Motion 120508.14

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the process for towing vehicles blocking transit lines be streamlined. Operators should be able to summon tow trucks directly, and tow trucks should prioritize this type of call.

Objective 2.3.7 – Implement comprehensive bicycle sharing program and expand scope

      Motion 120508.15

The SFMTA CAC recommends that SFMTA, BART, and Caltrain collaborate on bike sharing plans.

      Motion 120508.16

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the SFMTA undertake a limited pilot program for bicycle space on Metro vehicles.

On motion to approve Motion 120508.02, 120508.05, 120508.06, 120508.07, 120508.08, 120508.10, 120508.11, 120508.12, 120508.13, 120508.14, 120508.15, and 120508.16:  Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

                     Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

        Objective 2.1.4 – Complete SFMTA website rebuild

            Motion 120508.03

The SFMTA CAC recommends all Daily Ops reports and all reports made available to management should be available on the redesigned web site.  The redesign of the web site should have as its primary emphasis the experience of mobile users, and the site should not display ads in its mobile versions.

Council member Vaughan moved that the motion be amended to include language that the redesigned website should be effective for both desktop and mobile platforms.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

      On motion to amend Motion 120508.03: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

              Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

The motion as amended reads as follows:

     Motion 120508.03

The SFMTA CAC recommends that all Daily Ops reports and all reports made available to management be made available on the redesigned web site.  The redesigned web site should be effective for both desktop and mobile platforms, and the site should not display ads in its mobile versions.

      On motion to approve Motion 120508.03 as amended:  Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

              Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

Objective 2.1.5 – Develop effective branding and signage of transit vehicles and integrate multi-modal wayfinding of all modes at stations, stops and in vehicles

     Motion 120508.04

The SFMTA CAC recommends signs should prioritize being concise over including “please” on every sign.  The agency should investigate, get outside assistance with, and implement best practices for wayfinding before undertaking any further wayfinding changes.

     

Chairman Murphy moved that the motion be amended to include the SFMTA CAC further recommends be placed at the beginning of the second sentence.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

      On motion to amend Motion 120508.04: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

              Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

The motion as amended reads as follows:

     Motion 120508.04

The SFMTA CAC recommends that being concise be prioritized over including “please” on every sign.  The SFMTA CAC further recommends that the agency investigate, get outside assistance with, and implement best practices for wayfinding before undertaking any further wayfinding changes.

            On motion to approve Motion 120508.04 as amended:  Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

                    Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

Objective 2.2.3 – Facilitate the movement of transit vehicles with consistent enforcement of transit-only lanes and traffic laws

      Motion 120508.09

The SFMTA CAC recommends the SFPD needs additional transit focused training emphasizing the importance of mass transit and other non-automobile forms of transportation to San Francisco.

     

Council member Weaver moved that the motion be amended to further recommend that the SFFD receive transit-focused training, including the importance of not blocking the flow of traffic to public transit, as well as the importance of removing obstructions to the flow of such traffic.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

David Pilpel commented on the SFPD delaying transit.  Mr. Pilpel also commented that there should be priorities to move people during special and regular events.

            On motion to amend Motion 120508.09: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

                    Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

      The motion as amended reads as follows:

            Motion 120508.09

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the SFPD and the SFFD get additional transit-focused training about the importance of not blocking the flow of public transit and other non-automobile modes of transportation, as well as the importance of removing obstructions to the flow of such traffic. The SFMTA CAC further recommends that the SFPD and SFFD receive additional transit-focused training emphasizing the importance of mass transit and other non-automobile forms of transportation to San Francisco.

            On motion to approve Motion 120508.09 as amended: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

                    Absent – Cimento, Vincent, and Wong

     

9. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the subway platform display and public announcement system design. (Frank Lau, Project Manager, Capital Programs & Construction)

Dorris Vincent arrived at 6:40 p.m.

Frank Lau discussed the replacement of passenger display signs in the metro stations.  The new signs will be larger; will incorporate NextMuni information, including the arrival of other trains in that direction.  Public outreach was conducted to solicit comments from passengers at different stations.   There were 741 comments received and all stated that the signs were overdue for replacement.  Passenger information display signs will also be located near station agent booths.

Public Comment:

Edward Mason commented on the proposed logo.  Mr. Mason also commented on the public announcement system design.

10. Discussion and possible action regarding recommendations from the Operations and Customer Service Committee (OPCSC)

Motion 120508.01

The SFMTA CAC recognizes that the staff-proposed changes to the Contractor Parking Permit system terms must go into effect on June 1, 2012.  The SFMTA CAC recommends that a proposal for a more fair and equitable system be drafted by staff no later than September 2012, allowing contractors, and possibly other small businesses, to park at metered spaces for the full meter price, but without a limit on time.  The SFMTA CAC recommends that the permit should include a way for small businesses to buy permits allowing them to park in RPP areas, similar to the proposed prepaid daily RPPs.

Public Comment:

      None

            On motion to approve Motion 120508.01: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

                    Absent – Cimento and Wong

11. Discussion and possible action regarding recommendations from the Engineering, Maintenance and Safety Committee (EMSC)

Motion 120523.01

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the subway platform have at least three or more new destination signs per direction in preparation for double-berthing and/or coupling.

Council member Weaver stated that at the last EMSC meeting, Frank Lau discussed the upgrade of the subway platform display signs. 

Council member Ferrario mentioned that the subway originally held three- and four-car trains.  He moved that the motion be amended to have four destination signs for each direction and to include maximizing flexibility and extendibility of the system.

      On motion to amend Motion 120523.01: Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

              Absent – Cimento and Wong

The motion as amended reads as follows:

      Motion 120523.01

The SFMTA CAC recommends that the subway platform have four new destination signs per direction in preparation for double-berthing and/or coupling and to maximize flexibility and extendibility of the system.

      On motion to approve Motion 120523.01 as amended:  Approved

Ayes – Ballew, Downey, Ferrario, Haverkamp, Murphy, Salomon, Vaughan, Vincent, Weaver, and Zepeda

                    Nayes – None

              Absent – Cimento and Wong

Public Comment:

      None

     

12. Committee Members’ request for information. (For discussion only)

  • Dan Weaver commented that at Faxon near Ocean there are 24/7 no parking signs.  He inquired about the validity of the signs.
  • Steve Ferrario requested that the Daily Operations Report for July 2nd be explained at the next OCSC meeting.
  • Susan Vaughan would like to know the cost for the operation of the 83X.  She would also like to know if ridership is being tracked and believes another analysis should be done.  
  • Susan Vaughan commented on an SF Weekly article about the dysfunction in tracking parts.  Ms. Vaughan would like to know if there is a plan to upgrade the system.  Council member Weaver suggested dividing the on-time performance and maintenance issues between the OCSC and EMSC.
  • Sue Vaughan would like to know the Agency’s reaction to Representative Tom McClintoff’s legislation on the Central Subway.
  • Steve Ferrario would like to hear an ‘a’ and ‘b’ scenario that the Agency may be thinking with regards to Central Subway funding.
  • Joan Downey would like to know the regulations for obtaining a red or white zone.
  • Joan Downey stated that there are cars vertically parked in their private driveways on Shrader Street near Carl that she believes are not being ticketed.  She would like to know if cars are being ticketed.
  • Joan Downey inquired how DPT Enforcement knows where property lines are.

Public Comment:

Joseph Flanagan expressed concern for the disabled and seniors who ride public transit.

13. Schedule upcoming calendar items.  (For discussion only)
Next regular meeting:  Thursday, August 2, 2012, at 5:30 p.m.
1 South Van Ness Avenue, 7th Floor, Union Square Conference Room #7080

Accessible meeting policy – One South Van Ness Avenue

ADJOURN:  The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by:
Yvette Torres
SFMTA CAC – Secretary

 

 

Accessible meeting policy – One South Van Ness Avenue

telephone311 Free language assistance / 免費語言協助 / Ayuda gratuita con el idioma / Бесплатная помощь переводчиков / Trợ giúp Thông dịch Miễn phí / Assistance linguistique gratuite / 無料の言語支援 / 무료 언어 지원 / Libreng tulong para sa wikang Tagalog / คว“มช่วยเหลือท“งภ“ษ“โดยไม่เส’ยค่าใช้จ่าย

 

©2000-2013 San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. All rights reserved.