This summer, SPUR hosted a talented group of policy researchers through partnerships with fellowship and practicum programs at high schools, colleges, and graduate programs. Learn more about the work they did with SPUR and where they headed after collaborating with us.

Why should voters in one county care about funding transit in another? Because the Bay Area’s transit system is very regional. SPUR research found that Bay Area transit trips are 70% more likely to cross county lines than car trips, making the success of all transit agencies vital to the region’s health. We dug into the impacts of the looming $800 million annual deficit and why Senate Bill 63 is the best hope to save Bay Area transit.

San Francisco’s proposed Family Zoning Plan would allow thousands of new housing units to be built in west side neighborhoods that haven’t seen much growth in decades. What would a population increase like this mean for traffic and mobility in this part of the city? SPUR delved into local transportation data and made some surprising discoveries about traffic and commute patterns.

Bay Area Air District rules phasing out the sale of gas-fired space and water heating equipment will lead to the steady transition to heat pumps in homes and the realization of enormous health and environmental benefits. A thoughtful implementation process will ensure the rules are on track for success. SPUR recommends four actions to strengthen that process.

Most residents are unfamiliar with their city’s charter — the foundational legal document that functions as a city’s local constitution and shapes nearly every aspect of its governance. As San Francisco and Oakland consider changes to their city charters, SPUR dives into what a charter is, how it works, and why it’s important to everything from the powers of elected officials to how public services are delivered.