This year SPUR began the work of reimagining cities to meet the needs of a post-pandemic world. We explored how downtowns can become central social districts. We worked to sustain essential transit service while pushing for progress toward a single regional transit system. We spearheaded the movement to decarbonize the region’s buildings and worked to make it easier to build much-needed housing.

This year, SPUR celebrated the completion of the Regional Strategy and began the long-term work of building toward the future it envisions. We tackled immediate concerns, like public transit’s fiscal crisis, and pursued the longer-term changes that will influence quality of life for generations.

Our 2021 Annual Report reflects on a trying year and how we rose to the challenge. SPUR sought solutions that focused on the essential elements of place: housing, transportation and the environment. We also staked out new ground, initiating a policy practice in economic justice. While we rolled up our sleeves to respond to the immediate crisis, we also homed in what it will take for the Bay Area’s cities and towns to thrive in the future.

Once a year, SPUR looks back on the accomplishments of the past 12 months. This time, it’s a bittersweet reflection. We’re exceedingly proud of all that we got done in 2019. But we know it’s a fraction of what will be needed going forward as Bay Area communities struggle to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and begin to address the systemic racism that has shaped the region.