Taken with Transportation Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:58:09 -0500 https://takenwithtransportation.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Taken with Transportation yes 3fef9ac3-cd5d-5279-a339-c9b4a8f70524 SFMTA episodic false Welcome to Taken with Transportation, the official podcast of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA).  

Each episode will take you along for the ride as we profile the people and policies that make accessible, equitable transportation in San Francisco possible. These stories will cover everything from the city’s streets to the inner workings of the SFMTA and offer insight and perspectives you won’t get anywhere else. We’re passionate about the work we do and want to share that passion and commitment with you. 

About the Host: Melissa Culross comes to the SFMTA from the radio industry where she spent three decades hosting broadcasts and creating content for a variety of stations, including KCBS, Star 101.3 and Alice@97.3 in the Bay Area. Melissa has been drawn to storytelling her whole life and has been a regular San Francisco public transit rider since moving to the city in the 1990s.  

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) SFMTA https://storage.buzzsprout.com/ea41pblxjwwr6z7qezriju0s6dly?.jpg Taken with Transportation Love Is in the Air and on Muni Love Is in the Air and on Muni You never know where you will find love, or where love will find you. It could happen anywhere, including on public transit.

In this episode, we talk with two couples who found each other thanks, at least in part, to Muni. SFMTA Acting Chief Safety Officer Oliver Gajda and his partner Damara Arsanis first encountered each other on the 21 Hayes about nine years ago before connecting on a dating app in 2022. Mary Rickles Conley and Jared Conley met on the N Judah in 2012. They tell us their stories in honor of Valentine’s Day.

]]> You never know where you will find love, or where love will find you. It could happen anywhere, including on public transit.

In this episode, we talk with two couples who found each other thanks, at least in part, to Muni. SFMTA Acting Chief Safety Officer Oliver Gajda and his partner Damara Arsanis first encountered each other on the 21 Hayes about nine years ago before connecting on a dating app in 2022. Mary Rickles Conley and Jared Conley met on the N Judah in 2012. They tell us their stories in honor of Valentine’s Day.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-18670331 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0800 962 37 full false The Road to City Hall The Road to City Hall We are commuting to work with a half a dozen San Francisco city supervisors. In this episode, we tag along with Matt Dorsey, Myrna Melgar, Danny Sauter, Stephen Sherrill, Chyanne Chen and Bilal Mahmood as they head to their City Hall offices. They discuss their daily trips and San Francisco transportation, overall.

]]> We are commuting to work with a half a dozen San Francisco city supervisors. In this episode, we tag along with Matt Dorsey, Myrna Melgar, Danny Sauter, Stephen Sherrill, Chyanne Chen and Bilal Mahmood as they head to their City Hall offices. They discuss their daily trips and San Francisco transportation, overall.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-18513553 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0800 1799 36 full false Dashing Through the Holidays on Muni Dashing Through the Holidays on Muni It’s the holiday homestretch in San Francisco. All over the city, people are hopping on public transit to get to work, shopping and holiday parties. In our second Merry Days of Muni episode, we look at how Muni supports the San Francisco small businesses at this time of year…and all year long. We also hear about how the joy of the season makes its way onto our vehicles. 

This episode features Rize Up Bakery Founder and Head Baker Azikiwee Anderson, Golden Gate Restaurant Association Executive Director Laurie Thomas, Union Square Alliance CEO Marisa Rodriguez, Muni Operator Robert Valenzuela and Muni riders. 

]]> It’s the holiday homestretch in San Francisco. All over the city, people are hopping on public transit to get to work, shopping and holiday parties. In our second Merry Days of Muni episode, we look at how Muni supports the San Francisco small businesses at this time of year…and all year long. We also hear about how the joy of the season makes its way onto our vehicles. 

This episode features Rize Up Bakery Founder and Head Baker Azikiwee Anderson, Golden Gate Restaurant Association Executive Director Laurie Thomas, Union Square Alliance CEO Marisa Rodriguez, Muni Operator Robert Valenzuela and Muni riders. 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-18338001 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0800 560 35 full false Holiday Traditions Wrapped in Gratitude Holiday Traditions Wrapped in Gratitude It’s the holiday season, and the Merry Days of Muni are underway. In this episode, agency staff discuss their holiday traditions and what they’re grateful for. We also get the low down on what’s available in the Muni Store’s Merry Days of Muni Holiday Collection. SFMTA Operator Gary Merritt, Transportation Planner Javaun Garcia, Chief Spokesperson Erica Kato, Equity Engagement Coordinator Lawrence Festin, Presidio Division Superintendent Aleta Williams, Graphic Designer Anton Belov and Public Relations Officer Sophia Sherr appear in the episode. 

]]> It’s the holiday season, and the Merry Days of Muni are underway. In this episode, agency staff discuss their holiday traditions and what they’re grateful for. We also get the low down on what’s available in the Muni Store’s Merry Days of Muni Holiday Collection. SFMTA Operator Gary Merritt, Transportation Planner Javaun Garcia, Chief Spokesperson Erica Kato, Equity Engagement Coordinator Lawrence Festin, Presidio Division Superintendent Aleta Williams, Graphic Designer Anton Belov and Public Relations Officer Sophia Sherr appear in the episode. 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-18212620 Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1206 34 full false Hop on Board for Transit Month Hop on Board for Transit Month September is Transit Month, and in this episode, we’re celebrating with Muni riders and fans, as well as our staff. We'll take a run with the Muni Run Club and meet the owner of a Muni-themed deli. SFMTA Transit Director Brent Jones and Muni operators Basheba Walls, Ce Lon Lam, MC Allen, Raymone Garner and William Cheng also appear in the episode. 

]]> September is Transit Month, and in this episode, we’re celebrating with Muni riders and fans, as well as our staff. We'll take a run with the Muni Run Club and meet the owner of a Muni-themed deli. SFMTA Transit Director Brent Jones and Muni operators Basheba Walls, Ce Lon Lam, MC Allen, Raymone Garner and William Cheng also appear in the episode. 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17885759 Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0700 826 33 full false Class Is Back in Session Class Is Back in Session Another school year has begun, and thousands of San Francisco kids and teenagers are walking, biking, carpooling and taking Muni to class. In this episode, we discuss the work we do to support education by helping students get to school. We speak with SFMTA Transit Planner Sandra Padilla, SFMTA Transportation Planner Ben Frazier, School Crossing Guard Dennis Lowry, Walk San Francisco Interim Executive Director Margaret McCarthy, as well as a city parent and various high schoolers and recent high school graduates.

]]> Another school year has begun, and thousands of San Francisco kids and teenagers are walking, biking, carpooling and taking Muni to class. In this episode, we discuss the work we do to support education by helping students get to school. We speak with SFMTA Transit Planner Sandra Padilla, SFMTA Transportation Planner Ben Frazier, School Crossing Guard Dennis Lowry, Walk San Francisco Interim Executive Director Margaret McCarthy, as well as a city parent and various high schoolers and recent high school graduates.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17705209 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 725 32 full false Summer in the City by the Bay Summer in the City by the Bay Summer is in full swing, and there is no lack of things to do in San Francisco. In this episode, we get out for some summer fun and describe how you can get to your favorite events and activities on Muni. If you drive, walk or bike, we’ve got you covered with event traffic management courtesy of our parking control officers. And our accessibility team makes sure everyone can get around and enjoy the season.

This episode features Transit Special Operations Manager Leslie Bienenfeld, Parking Control Officers Terry Wong and Andy Zhu, Principal Access and Mobility Planner Maddy Ruvolo, Cable Car Operator Singh Balraj Rai and some San Francisco residents and visitors enjoying everything the city has to offer. 

]]> Summer is in full swing, and there is no lack of things to do in San Francisco. In this episode, we get out for some summer fun and describe how you can get to your favorite events and activities on Muni. If you drive, walk or bike, we’ve got you covered with event traffic management courtesy of our parking control officers. And our accessibility team makes sure everyone can get around and enjoy the season.

This episode features Transit Special Operations Manager Leslie Bienenfeld, Parking Control Officers Terry Wong and Andy Zhu, Principal Access and Mobility Planner Maddy Ruvolo, Cable Car Operator Singh Balraj Rai and some San Francisco residents and visitors enjoying everything the city has to offer. 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17576243 Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0700 934 31 full false Tip of the Cap (and Gown) to Our Dads and Grads Tip of the Cap (and Gown) to Our Dads and Grads Between Father’s Day and graduation season, June is the month of dads and grads. So, in this special episode, we’re profiling eight of the agency’s fathers and recent graduates. 

We get to know Parking Control Officers Lloyd Glover, Willie Moore and Harold Laughlin, Director of Parking Enforcement and Operations Ted Graff, Muni Operator Joe Kibbles, Chief of Staff and Director of External Communications Judson True and Youth Transportation Advisory Board Members Mason Ngo and Chanel Marie Green as they tell their stories.

]]> Between Father’s Day and graduation season, June is the month of dads and grads. So, in this special episode, we’re profiling eight of the agency’s fathers and recent graduates. 

We get to know Parking Control Officers Lloyd Glover, Willie Moore and Harold Laughlin, Director of Parking Enforcement and Operations Ted Graff, Muni Operator Joe Kibbles, Chief of Staff and Director of External Communications Judson True and Youth Transportation Advisory Board Members Mason Ngo and Chanel Marie Green as they tell their stories.

]]> Buzzsprout-17424575 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0700 726 30 full false Transfers That Fit Our Budget Transfers That Fit Our Budget Muni service changes are coming this weekend. Beginning June 21, three bus routes will be trimmed and two others will be combined into one. The changes might be confusing, so in this episode we’ll walk you through them. We hop on board one of the affected buses and visit some of the stops and neighborhoods serviced by the other. We discuss how the adjustments were designed and the transfer options to navigate them. 

SFMTA Chief Planning and Implementation Officer Sean Kennedy and Transit Director Brent Jones appear in the episode. You can find information on these and other changes we’re making to Muni service at SFMTA.com/ServiceChanges.

]]> Muni service changes are coming this weekend. Beginning June 21, three bus routes will be trimmed and two others will be combined into one. The changes might be confusing, so in this episode we’ll walk you through them. We hop on board one of the affected buses and visit some of the stops and neighborhoods serviced by the other. We discuss how the adjustments were designed and the transfer options to navigate them. 

SFMTA Chief Planning and Implementation Officer Sean Kennedy and Transit Director Brent Jones appear in the episode. You can find information on these and other changes we’re making to Muni service at SFMTA.com/ServiceChanges.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17359132 Wed, 18 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700 878 29 full false Moms Who Keep Us Moving Moms Who Keep Us Moving It’s Mother’s Day weekend, and we are honoring moms by showcasing some of the fabulous mothers of the SFMTA. We have scores of moms on staff who keep San Francisco and the agency moving. This special episode features seven of them.

Director of Transportation Julie Kirschbaum, Deputy Chief of Staff Kamini Lall, Parking Control Officers Lachanee Ricard and Kynattah Hill, Multimodal Planning Manager Jean Long and Muni Operators Juliann Robinson and Shawnta Bolanos join us to talk about their work, their children and what Mother’s Day means to them.

]]> It’s Mother’s Day weekend, and we are honoring moms by showcasing some of the fabulous mothers of the SFMTA. We have scores of moms on staff who keep San Francisco and the agency moving. This special episode features seven of them.

Director of Transportation Julie Kirschbaum, Deputy Chief of Staff Kamini Lall, Parking Control Officers Lachanee Ricard and Kynattah Hill, Multimodal Planning Manager Jean Long and Muni Operators Juliann Robinson and Shawnta Bolanos join us to talk about their work, their children and what Mother’s Day means to them.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17131377 Fri, 09 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700 631 28 full false Curb Space Curb Space It’s no secret that it can be difficult to park in San Francisco. But have you ever wondered why it may be so hard? In this episode, we discuss curb management and find out why available parking spaces seem to be so scarce in some SF neighborhoods. We hit the streets to see how curb management works and promotes safety. And we get tips on how to find parking with a minimum of frustration and how to use our new, more accessible parking meters and pay stations. 

SFMTA Parking and Curb Management Policy Manager Hank Willson, Transportation Planner Shayda Rager, Senior Planner Brian Manford, Parking Meter Program Manager Tony Massetti and Parking Enforcement Supervisor Lisa Rodriguez all appear in the episode.

]]> It’s no secret that it can be difficult to park in San Francisco. But have you ever wondered why it may be so hard? In this episode, we discuss curb management and find out why available parking spaces seem to be so scarce in some SF neighborhoods. We hit the streets to see how curb management works and promotes safety. And we get tips on how to find parking with a minimum of frustration and how to use our new, more accessible parking meters and pay stations. 

SFMTA Parking and Curb Management Policy Manager Hank Willson, Transportation Planner Shayda Rager, Senior Planner Brian Manford, Parking Meter Program Manager Tony Massetti and Parking Enforcement Supervisor Lisa Rodriguez all appear in the episode.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-17073324 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1252 27 full false For the Love of Muni For the Love of Muni There are many things that make San Francisco … well, San Francisco. The hills, the cool summers, the architecture. And you can add to that list, our public transit system. From buses to light rail lines to our iconic cable cars, residents and visitors alike love the San Francisco Municipal Railway, also known as Muni.

This episode explores the depth of that love for Muni. We talk with riders about what they love about it. We learn a little history from SFMTA Transportation Planner and Project Manager Paul Bignardi. And we discuss the state of the system today with Acting Transit Director Brent Jones and Muni merchandise with Marketing Manager Jeanne Brophy. Plus, we chat about playing the online game that celebrates Muni.

]]> There are many things that make San Francisco … well, San Francisco. The hills, the cool summers, the architecture. And you can add to that list, our public transit system. From buses to light rail lines to our iconic cable cars, residents and visitors alike love the San Francisco Municipal Railway, also known as Muni.

This episode explores the depth of that love for Muni. We talk with riders about what they love about it. We learn a little history from SFMTA Transportation Planner and Project Manager Paul Bignardi. And we discuss the state of the system today with Acting Transit Director Brent Jones and Muni merchandise with Marketing Manager Jeanne Brophy. Plus, we chat about playing the online game that celebrates Muni.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16793624 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0700 1026 26 full false Our Fare Share Our Fare Share Thousands of people in San Francisco depend on Muni to get where they need to go. And the SFMTA depends on fare revenue to keep the system running and to keep it clean, safe and accessible. 

In this episode, we talk about fare compliance and enforcement on Muni. Revenue Operations Senior Manager Diana Hammons and Chief Strategy Officer Jonathan Rewers discuss why fares are important and how they fit into our overall budget. We then follow a team of transit fare inspectors as they work to make sure our riders are paying properly.

]]> Thousands of people in San Francisco depend on Muni to get where they need to go. And the SFMTA depends on fare revenue to keep the system running and to keep it clean, safe and accessible. 

In this episode, we talk about fare compliance and enforcement on Muni. Revenue Operations Senior Manager Diana Hammons and Chief Strategy Officer Jonathan Rewers discuss why fares are important and how they fit into our overall budget. We then follow a team of transit fare inspectors as they work to make sure our riders are paying properly.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16576516 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0800 850 25 full false Thank You, Jeff Tumlin Thank You, Jeff Tumlin It’s a new year, and in our first episode of 2025, we take a look at the tenure of San Francisco Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin. Director Tumlin announced in mid-December that he would step down from his position at the end of the month. We spend this episode speaking with him about his five years with the SFMTA and with other agency staffers about working with him. 

]]> It’s a new year, and in our first episode of 2025, we take a look at the tenure of San Francisco Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin. Director Tumlin announced in mid-December that he would step down from his position at the end of the month. We spend this episode speaking with him about his five years with the SFMTA and with other agency staffers about working with him. 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16370622 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0800 929 24 full false Keeping Warm at SweaterFest (Bonus Episode) Keeping Warm at SweaterFest (Bonus Episode) It’s the holiday season, and in this bonus episode, we’re going back to our SweaterFest celebration. In early December we threw a party for Muni fans and the community at large in honor of our “Icons of San Francisco” holiday sweater. We sipped hot chocolate, enjoyed music and comedy, wrote haikus about Muni, and embraced the joy of San Francisco and its transportation system. So, grab some nog and join us for a dose of good cheer! 

]]> It’s the holiday season, and in this bonus episode, we’re going back to our SweaterFest celebration. In early December we threw a party for Muni fans and the community at large in honor of our “Icons of San Francisco” holiday sweater. We sipped hot chocolate, enjoyed music and comedy, wrote haikus about Muni, and embraced the joy of San Francisco and its transportation system. So, grab some nog and join us for a dose of good cheer! 

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16310074 Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0800 364 23 full false Mobility for Everyone Mobility for Everyone Sometimes people may not be able to use standard Muni and taxi service in San Francisco. So, we offer a variety of options from paratransit to shuttle services that help older adults and people with disabilities get where they need to go. In this episode, you’ll learn how we customize and administer these options. San Francisco Paratransit Operations General Manager Yevette McNeese, SFMTA Mobility Management Center Manager Catherine Callahan and Mobility Management Specialist Aurico Daga are featured, as are several city residents.

]]> Sometimes people may not be able to use standard Muni and taxi service in San Francisco. So, we offer a variety of options from paratransit to shuttle services that help older adults and people with disabilities get where they need to go. In this episode, you’ll learn how we customize and administer these options. San Francisco Paratransit Operations General Manager Yevette McNeese, SFMTA Mobility Management Center Manager Catherine Callahan and Mobility Management Specialist Aurico Daga are featured, as are several city residents.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16268409 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0800 935 22 full false Riding into the Sunset (The L Taraval Returns) Riding into the Sunset (The L Taraval Returns) Welcome back to the Sunset District, L Taraval! For several years, light rail service along the L Taraval line between the San Francisco Zoo and downtown was suspended while the SFMTA worked with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and Public Works on a major track replacement and water and sewer project. That project is now done, and along with the infrastructure upgrades, we made many safety improvements along the line.

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we spend time on Taraval Street talking to residents and merchants about what the return of the L Taraval means to them and for the neighborhood. We also speak with SFMTA Transit Priority Manager Michael Rhodes, L Taraval Improvement Project Manager Keanway Kyi, Muni Operator Tammi Bedford and San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio.

]]> Welcome back to the Sunset District, L Taraval! For several years, light rail service along the L Taraval line between the San Francisco Zoo and downtown was suspended while the SFMTA worked with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and Public Works on a major track replacement and water and sewer project. That project is now done, and along with the infrastructure upgrades, we made many safety improvements along the line.

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we spend time on Taraval Street talking to residents and merchants about what the return of the L Taraval means to them and for the neighborhood. We also speak with SFMTA Transit Priority Manager Michael Rhodes, L Taraval Improvement Project Manager Keanway Kyi, Muni Operator Tammi Bedford and San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-16147869 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0800 1019 21 full false Moving Forward on Muni Moving Forward on Muni Ten years ago, we began implementing an ongoing series of transit improvements as part of a new program called Muni Forward. These improvements have made Muni faster, more reliable, more frequent, easier to access and safer.  

In this episode, we celebrate Muni Forward.

We learn about history of the program and some of the specific improvements we've made. We speak with SFMTA Transit Director Julie Kirschbaum, Muni Chief Planning and Implementation Officer Sean Kennedy, Transit Priority Manager Michael Rhodes and Transit Engineering Team Manager Cheryl Liu. We also hear from riders and a small business owner who discuss their experiences with Muni.

]]> Ten years ago, we began implementing an ongoing series of transit improvements as part of a new program called Muni Forward. These improvements have made Muni faster, more reliable, more frequent, easier to access and safer.  

In this episode, we celebrate Muni Forward.

We learn about history of the program and some of the specific improvements we've made. We speak with SFMTA Transit Director Julie Kirschbaum, Muni Chief Planning and Implementation Officer Sean Kennedy, Transit Priority Manager Michael Rhodes and Transit Engineering Team Manager Cheryl Liu. We also hear from riders and a small business owner who discuss their experiences with Muni.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15897740 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1257 20 full false Ahoy! Ahoy! September is Transit Month in the Bay Area. And we’re celebrating on board Muni’s Boat Tram open air streetcar. In this episode we discuss the beloved 90-year-old boat’s history and how we maintain it. Plus, we talk about the joy it brings to the streets of San Fransico.

SFMTA Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin, Board Member Dominica Henderson, Muni Historic Fleet Superintendent Kevin Sheridan and Muni Operator David Gunter appear in the episode. We also speak with Market Street Railway President Rick Laubscher, SFMTA Citizens Advisory Council Vice Chair Chris Arvin and SFCTA Community Advisory Committee Chair Kat Siegal.

]]> September is Transit Month in the Bay Area. And we’re celebrating on board Muni’s Boat Tram open air streetcar. In this episode we discuss the beloved 90-year-old boat’s history and how we maintain it. Plus, we talk about the joy it brings to the streets of San Fransico.

SFMTA Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin, Board Member Dominica Henderson, Muni Historic Fleet Superintendent Kevin Sheridan and Muni Operator David Gunter appear in the episode. We also speak with Market Street Railway President Rick Laubscher, SFMTA Citizens Advisory Council Vice Chair Chris Arvin and SFCTA Community Advisory Committee Chair Kat Siegal.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15696641 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0700 991 19 full false Slowing Down and Getting to Know the Neighborhood Slowing Down and Getting to Know the Neighborhood San Francisco’s Slow Streets are low-vehicle-traffic residential corridors. They provide comfortable options for walking, biking and rolling, as well as driving. But some of them also have become community spaces that bring neighbors together. In this episode, we take a look at a few of the ways San Francisco residents are embracing their Slow Streets. 

We speak with SFMTA Transportation Planner Julia Malmo and Analyst Elijah Enis. They talk about the Slow Streets Mural Pilot Program. Slow Street Stewards Tim Hickey and Molly Hayden also appear in the episode. So does Zaid Zayouna, the founder and creator of Slow Street Coffee.

]]> San Francisco’s Slow Streets are low-vehicle-traffic residential corridors. They provide comfortable options for walking, biking and rolling, as well as driving. But some of them also have become community spaces that bring neighbors together. In this episode, we take a look at a few of the ways San Francisco residents are embracing their Slow Streets. 

We speak with SFMTA Transportation Planner Julia Malmo and Analyst Elijah Enis. They talk about the Slow Streets Mural Pilot Program. Slow Street Stewards Tim Hickey and Molly Hayden also appear in the episode. So does Zaid Zayouna, the founder and creator of Slow Street Coffee.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15594872 Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0700 1162 18 full false Scooting Safely Scooting Safely An increasingly popular way to get around San Francisco is by scooter. This includes shared scooters that riders pick up in one place, use for a fee and then drop off when they’re done. The SFMTA regulates the companies that rent those scooters. We also promote scooter safety for all riders.

In this episode, we discuss scooter safety with Kate Toran, Philip Cranna and Danny Yeung from our Taxis, Access and Mobility Services Division. We also go out with Inspector Peter Woods on safety enforcement patrol. 

And we check in with the Mayor’s Office on Disability to talk about how they work with us on scooter safety.

]]> An increasingly popular way to get around San Francisco is by scooter. This includes shared scooters that riders pick up in one place, use for a fee and then drop off when they’re done. The SFMTA regulates the companies that rent those scooters. We also promote scooter safety for all riders.

In this episode, we discuss scooter safety with Kate Toran, Philip Cranna and Danny Yeung from our Taxis, Access and Mobility Services Division. We also go out with Inspector Peter Woods on safety enforcement patrol. 

And we check in with the Mayor’s Office on Disability to talk about how they work with us on scooter safety.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15430033 Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0700 938 17 full false About Town with Our CFO About Town with Our CFO In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we speak with SFMTA Chief Financial Officer Bree Mawhorter. We talk about the agency's budget and how more efficient service can save money. Plus, we take a little transportation tour with Mawhorter and discuss the many ways she gets around town.

]]> In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we speak with SFMTA Chief Financial Officer Bree Mawhorter. We talk about the agency's budget and how more efficient service can save money. Plus, we take a little transportation tour with Mawhorter and discuss the many ways she gets around town.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15310332 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1046 16 full false A Safe and Fun School Commute A Safe and Fun School Commute The road to school should always be a safe one, and it also can be a fun one. The San Francisco Safe Routes to School program works to make walking, biking, rolling, and taking transit to school safer and more accessible for all SF kids. In this episode, we speak with SFMTA Safe Routes to School Program Coordinator Crysta Highfield and Transportation Planner Ben Frazier about their work on the program, along with San Francisco Bicycle Coalition Safe Routes to School Program Manager Kenny Kruse. 

We also attend a couple of Bike and Roll to School Week events where we have a chance to talk to elementary school commuters and their parents. Plus, we hear from San Francisco Supervisors Rafael Mandelman and Myrna Melgar, as well as Dolores Huerta Elementary School Principal Edward Garnica. 

And finally, we learn what a bike blender is and get to see it in action.

]]> The road to school should always be a safe one, and it also can be a fun one. The San Francisco Safe Routes to School program works to make walking, biking, rolling, and taking transit to school safer and more accessible for all SF kids. In this episode, we speak with SFMTA Safe Routes to School Program Coordinator Crysta Highfield and Transportation Planner Ben Frazier about their work on the program, along with San Francisco Bicycle Coalition Safe Routes to School Program Manager Kenny Kruse. 

We also attend a couple of Bike and Roll to School Week events where we have a chance to talk to elementary school commuters and their parents. Plus, we hear from San Francisco Supervisors Rafael Mandelman and Myrna Melgar, as well as Dolores Huerta Elementary School Principal Edward Garnica. 

And finally, we learn what a bike blender is and get to see it in action.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-15087047 Fri, 17 May 2024 09:00:00 -0700 746 15 full false Keeping the Vision Keeping the Vision In late-March 2014, San Francisco adopted Vision Zero, the road safety policy to eliminate traffic deaths and reduce severe injuries in the city. This episode of Taken with Transportation looks at the impact of that policy and what has changed over the last decade. 

We discuss the origins of Vision Zero, as well as the work the SFMTA is doing today and will do into the future to make San Francisco streets safe and joyful. Appearing in the episode are SFMTA Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin, Board of Directors Chair Amanda Eaken, City Traffic Engineer Ricardo Olea, former Streets Director Tom Maguire and former Director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health's Heath, Equity and Sustainability Program Megan Weir.

]]> In late-March 2014, San Francisco adopted Vision Zero, the road safety policy to eliminate traffic deaths and reduce severe injuries in the city. This episode of Taken with Transportation looks at the impact of that policy and what has changed over the last decade. 

We discuss the origins of Vision Zero, as well as the work the SFMTA is doing today and will do into the future to make San Francisco streets safe and joyful. Appearing in the episode are SFMTA Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin, Board of Directors Chair Amanda Eaken, City Traffic Engineer Ricardo Olea, former Streets Director Tom Maguire and former Director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health's Heath, Equity and Sustainability Program Megan Weir.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-14902719 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0700 1144 14 full false Paint, Paper, Metal and Machines Paint, Paper, Metal and Machines There are things on our streets that we probably take for granted but most definitely help us move around cities safely and efficiently. We’re talking about street signs, street markings and parking meters. 

In San Francisco, the SFMTA Street Operations shops handle the signs, street painting and meters we depend on, whether we are getting around by walking, driving, cycling or scooting. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we pay a visit to those shops and speak with Traffic Paint Shop Supervisor Brian McBride, Meter Shop Manager Tony Massetti, Temporary Sign Program Manager Gretchen Rude and Traffic Sign Shop Manager Noel Laffey. We also get a chance to talk to Thermoplastic Crew Six lead Jarrett Laws and Traffic Sign Installer Patrick Rose as they are on the job.

]]> There are things on our streets that we probably take for granted but most definitely help us move around cities safely and efficiently. We’re talking about street signs, street markings and parking meters. 

In San Francisco, the SFMTA Street Operations shops handle the signs, street painting and meters we depend on, whether we are getting around by walking, driving, cycling or scooting. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we pay a visit to those shops and speak with Traffic Paint Shop Supervisor Brian McBride, Meter Shop Manager Tony Massetti, Temporary Sign Program Manager Gretchen Rude and Traffic Sign Shop Manager Noel Laffey. We also get a chance to talk to Thermoplastic Crew Six lead Jarrett Laws and Traffic Sign Installer Patrick Rose as they are on the job.

]]> Buzzsprout-14740430 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0700 1113 13 full false How to Muni How to Muni If you're new to San Francisco Muni, using it can feel overwhelming at first. Well, don't worry. Whether you've just moved to the city, are planning to visit and don't want to rent a car or have lived here for some time but haven't taken advantage of all Muni has to offer, we at Taken with Transportation have your back.

In this episode, we offer a practical how-to guide for getting around on Muni. Host Melissa Culross speaks with SFMTA Senior Manager of Revenue Collection and Sales Diana Hammons, operators Lynnette Richie and Arnold Gray, station agent Rigo Ortega and Deputy Chief Security Officer Teresa Scism to go over all the ins and outs of the system from how to pay your fare to how to be a courteous passenger. A couple of regular riders even share their experience on Muni and offer a bit of advice.

]]> If you're new to San Francisco Muni, using it can feel overwhelming at first. Well, don't worry. Whether you've just moved to the city, are planning to visit and don't want to rent a car or have lived here for some time but haven't taken advantage of all Muni has to offer, we at Taken with Transportation have your back.

In this episode, we offer a practical how-to guide for getting around on Muni. Host Melissa Culross speaks with SFMTA Senior Manager of Revenue Collection and Sales Diana Hammons, operators Lynnette Richie and Arnold Gray, station agent Rigo Ortega and Deputy Chief Security Officer Teresa Scism to go over all the ins and outs of the system from how to pay your fare to how to be a courteous passenger. A couple of regular riders even share their experience on Muni and offer a bit of advice.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-14539152 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0800 828 12 full false Breaking Glass Ceilings Halfway to the Stars Breaking Glass Ceilings Halfway to the Stars 26 years ago this month, Fannie Mae Barnes made history when she became San Francisco's first female cable car grip. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, Barnes talks with host Melissa Culross about that experience. The episode also features Willa Johnson, the second female grip.

The women discuss what it takes, physically, to be a grip and what it was like to break the glass ceiling that hung over San Francisco's beloved cable cars for more than a century.

]]> 26 years ago this month, Fannie Mae Barnes made history when she became San Francisco's first female cable car grip. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, Barnes talks with host Melissa Culross about that experience. The episode also features Willa Johnson, the second female grip.

The women discuss what it takes, physically, to be a grip and what it was like to break the glass ceiling that hung over San Francisco's beloved cable cars for more than a century.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-14354840 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0800 772 11 full false Celebrating Culture and Community on a Cable Car Celebrating Culture and Community on a Cable Car Specially decorated cable cars climb the hills of San Francisco throughout the year in honor of different communities and cultures. It's one of the ways the SFMTA celebrates the diversity of its staff and of the city. 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross rides the cars decorated in honor of Filipino American History Month and Native American Heritage Month and talks with Cable Car Division Manager Fred Butler, SFMTA Board of Directors member Lydia So and various agency staffers about the heritage cable car program.

]]> Specially decorated cable cars climb the hills of San Francisco throughout the year in honor of different communities and cultures. It's one of the ways the SFMTA celebrates the diversity of its staff and of the city. 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross rides the cars decorated in honor of Filipino American History Month and Native American Heritage Month and talks with Cable Car Division Manager Fred Butler, SFMTA Board of Directors member Lydia So and various agency staffers about the heritage cable car program.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-14043411 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0800 667 10 full false More Than a Meter Maid More Than a Meter Maid One of the most misunderstood roles at the SFMTA is that of the parking control officer or PCO. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross spends time on the streets of San Francisco with PCOs Scott Ong, Todd Baxter and Ruben Reveles, as well as Parking Enforcement Assistant Director and Captain Kent Chiu, to learn why parking enforcement is essential and what parking control officers do. She discovers that they are much more than just so-called "meter maids."

]]> One of the most misunderstood roles at the SFMTA is that of the parking control officer or PCO. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross spends time on the streets of San Francisco with PCOs Scott Ong, Todd Baxter and Ruben Reveles, as well as Parking Enforcement Assistant Director and Captain Kent Chiu, to learn why parking enforcement is essential and what parking control officers do. She discovers that they are much more than just so-called "meter maids."

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13852419 Thu, 26 Oct 2023 11:00:00 -0700 738 9 full false School Days School Days Every successful school day begins with students getting to class safely, and crossing guards help children and their parents in San Francisco navigate intersections near school campuses. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we learn about the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency's School Crossing Guard program. The program is part of the agency's larger effort to create safe and inviting streets.

We talk with SFMTA Crossing Guards Christian Frederick Lauser and Arturo Garcia, School Crossing Guard Program Assistant Manager and Acting Manager Karen Wong, SFMTA Parking Control Officer Angie Barosso, McKinley Elementary School Principal John Collins and San Francisco parent Hoa.

]]> Every successful school day begins with students getting to class safely, and crossing guards help children and their parents in San Francisco navigate intersections near school campuses. In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we learn about the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency's School Crossing Guard program. The program is part of the agency's larger effort to create safe and inviting streets.

We talk with SFMTA Crossing Guards Christian Frederick Lauser and Arturo Garcia, School Crossing Guard Program Assistant Manager and Acting Manager Karen Wong, SFMTA Parking Control Officer Angie Barosso, McKinley Elementary School Principal John Collins and San Francisco parent Hoa.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13725155 Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0700 632 8 full false Transit Month on Muni Transit Month on Muni September is Transit Month in the Bay Area and Taken with Transportation is celebrating with San Francisco Municipal Railway, or Muni, riders. Host Melissa Culross talks with riders in multiple neighborhoods who use Muni's buses, streetcars and light rail vehicles as their principal means of transportation. Culross also speaks with SFMTA Transit Director Julie Kirschbaum about service improvements and investments the agency is making, as well as Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin about his favorite Muni line and the first he remembers riding.

]]> September is Transit Month in the Bay Area and Taken with Transportation is celebrating with San Francisco Municipal Railway, or Muni, riders. Host Melissa Culross talks with riders in multiple neighborhoods who use Muni's buses, streetcars and light rail vehicles as their principal means of transportation. Culross also speaks with SFMTA Transit Director Julie Kirschbaum about service improvements and investments the agency is making, as well as Director of Transportation Jeff Tumlin about his favorite Muni line and the first he remembers riding.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13634246 Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0700 1002 7 full false Connecting Community to Transit Connecting Community to Transit Accessing public transit can be more difficult for people in a particular San Francisco neighborhood than it is in other parts of city. So the SFMTA is designing a supplemental transportation program for this area.

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we talk with SFMTA Transportation Planner Christopher Kidd, San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton, Bayview-Hunters Point Community Advocates Environmental Justice Director Dalila Adofo, SFMTA Planning Director Maia Small and neighborhood residents about a community shuttle that is expected to begin running in Bayview-Hunters Point in 2024.

]]> Accessing public transit can be more difficult for people in a particular San Francisco neighborhood than it is in other parts of city. So the SFMTA is designing a supplemental transportation program for this area.

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we talk with SFMTA Transportation Planner Christopher Kidd, San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton, Bayview-Hunters Point Community Advocates Environmental Justice Director Dalila Adofo, SFMTA Planning Director Maia Small and neighborhood residents about a community shuttle that is expected to begin running in Bayview-Hunters Point in 2024.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13536019 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0700 877 6 full false Stop and Go Stop and Go Traffic signals play a vital role in managing transportation, but have you ever thought about how that management works or how intersections are designed? 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we talk with SFMTA Senior Traffic Engineer Bryant Woo, Traffic Signal Electrician Dennis Verhalen and Transit Signal Supervisors Ferdinand Lumbad and John Affolter about how San Francisco intersections, from the most complex to the simple, function and about maintaining traffic signals. They help us understand how the work they do keeps the city moving.

]]> Traffic signals play a vital role in managing transportation, but have you ever thought about how that management works or how intersections are designed? 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, we talk with SFMTA Senior Traffic Engineer Bryant Woo, Traffic Signal Electrician Dennis Verhalen and Transit Signal Supervisors Ferdinand Lumbad and John Affolter about how San Francisco intersections, from the most complex to the simple, function and about maintaining traffic signals. They help us understand how the work they do keeps the city moving.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13416546 Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700 776 5 full false Happy Birthday to a San Francisco Treasure Happy Birthday to a San Francisco Treasure San Francisco's incredibly popular cable car service turns 150 years old on August 2, 2023. 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross speaks with San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Market Street Railway president Rick Laubscher, SFMTA cable car maintenance supervisor Dennis Dea, cable car operators Val Lupiz and Derrick Johnson, riders and business owners about the history and mechanics of the cars, as well as the impact they have on their city.

]]> San Francisco's incredibly popular cable car service turns 150 years old on August 2, 2023. 

In this episode of Taken with Transportation, host Melissa Culross speaks with San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Market Street Railway president Rick Laubscher, SFMTA cable car maintenance supervisor Dennis Dea, cable car operators Val Lupiz and Derrick Johnson, riders and business owners about the history and mechanics of the cars, as well as the impact they have on their city.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13323906 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0700 803 4 full false Bringing Everyone on Board Bringing Everyone on Board In this episode host Melissa Culross speaks with longtime (and recently retired) SFMTA Director of Accessible Services Annette Williams and Nicole Bohn, Director of the San Francisco Mayor's Office on Disability, about transportation accessibility and the role activism and advocacy have played in making transportation more accessible. July is Disability Pride Month, and this episode celebrates that by highlighting a bit of the work that has been done to break down barriers disabled people have faced over the decades.

]]> In this episode host Melissa Culross speaks with longtime (and recently retired) SFMTA Director of Accessible Services Annette Williams and Nicole Bohn, Director of the San Francisco Mayor's Office on Disability, about transportation accessibility and the role activism and advocacy have played in making transportation more accessible. July is Disability Pride Month, and this episode celebrates that by highlighting a bit of the work that has been done to break down barriers disabled people have faced over the decades.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13239065 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0700 838 3 full false Cleanliness Is Next to...Comfort and Safety Cleanliness Is Next to...Comfort and Safety An important part of the SFMTA’s commitment to safety is maintaining a clean fleet of Muni vehicles. In this episode, we meet three members of our transit car cleaning staff: Manager Myra Phillips, Assistant Supervisor Anthony Jackson, Jr. and Cleaner Ronald Brown. They’ll take us through the cleaning process and explain how the team keeps our buses, streetcars, light rail vehicles and cable cars spick and span. It’s a dirty job, but our very dedicated car cleaners do it well and with pride.

]]> An important part of the SFMTA’s commitment to safety is maintaining a clean fleet of Muni vehicles. In this episode, we meet three members of our transit car cleaning staff: Manager Myra Phillips, Assistant Supervisor Anthony Jackson, Jr. and Cleaner Ronald Brown. They’ll take us through the cleaning process and explain how the team keeps our buses, streetcars, light rail vehicles and cable cars spick and span. It’s a dirty job, but our very dedicated car cleaners do it well and with pride.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13139976 Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0700 562 2 full false Welcome Aboard! Welcome Aboard! The hard-working 22-Fillmore is one of San Francisco Muni’s longest running bus lines. We hop on board to learn about the history of the 22, as well as its modern-day impact on the city it serves. 

San Francisco Transit Riders Board member and retired SFMTA Manager of Service Planning Peter Strauss walks us through the early days of the line. We also talk with Muni operators Earl Scott and Julio Ruano, who drive on the 22-line, and we check in with some businesses along the route.

]]> The hard-working 22-Fillmore is one of San Francisco Muni’s longest running bus lines. We hop on board to learn about the history of the 22, as well as its modern-day impact on the city it serves. 

San Francisco Transit Riders Board member and retired SFMTA Manager of Service Planning Peter Strauss walks us through the early days of the line. We also talk with Muni operators Earl Scott and Julio Ruano, who drive on the 22-line, and we check in with some businesses along the route.

]]> SFMTA Buzzsprout-13046151 Thu, 15 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0700 525 1 full false "Welcome Aboard!" Trailer "Welcome Aboard!" Trailer The first episode of Taken with Transportation…”Welcome Aboard!”… is coming soon and will take you for a ride across San Francisco on the 22-Fillmore public transit line.

]]> The first episode of Taken with Transportation…”Welcome Aboard!”… is coming soon and will take you for a ride across San Francisco on the 22-Fillmore public transit line.

]]> Melissa Culross Buzzsprout-12999620 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:00:00 -0700 62 1 trailer false