Pandemic relief funds for public transit are running out, and the funding environment for transit is likely to worsen under the incoming Trump administration and Republican-controlled congress. While regional consensus on a potential future ballot measure to fund transit has been elusive, finding support for additional funding here in the Bay Area is more critical than ever. SPUR offers five principles for a regional funding measure likely to offer the broadest appeal to legislators and voters.

This election, the SPUR Voter Guide provided Bay Area voters with analysis and recommendations on 18 local and state measures. Many of our recommendations prevailed. Voters around the region chose to fund climate resilience, schools, public health facilities, violence reduction, and wildfire prevention, and they supported measures that aim to strengthen economic resilience, improve local governance, and prioritize walking and biking over cars.

With the resignation of San José Councilmember Omar Torres, many in District 3 are wondering what comes next and who will be representing them on the City Council. SPUR looks at the two possible paths forward and the considerations for balancing city needs with community representation.

As an advocate for high-quality transit, SPUR has at times been one of Muni’s critics. In a 2005 report, we argued that the agency was in a downward spiral, but now Muni appears to be enjoying a virtuous cycle. That cycle can only continue with voter support of Propositions L and M on the November ballot.