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KQED's Forum
An Exit Interview with SF Transit Director Jeff Tumlin
Jan 7, 2025
In this discussion, Jeff Tumlin, the former director of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, reflects on his challenging tenure leading Muni through a pandemic that drastically altered public transit. He sheds light on the recovery of Muni compared to BART and the essential adaptations made during this period. Tumlin discusses the impacts of rideshare services, the complexities of urban infrastructure, and emphasizes the importance of community engagement for improving transit in San Francisco. His insights provide a glimpse into the future of urban transportation.
57:51
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Quick takeaways
- Jeff Tumlin's leadership during the pandemic focused on restructuring Muni's services to prioritize reliability for vulnerable populations amid severe financial challenges.
- The pandemic spurred cultural change within SFMTA, enhancing employee motivation and pride by highlighting the meaningful impact of their work on community wellbeing.
Deep dives
Jeff Tumlin's Impact on Public Transportation
Jeff Tumlin's leadership at SFMTA has been marked by his response to significant challenges, including a pandemic-induced structural deficit. When Tumlin took over, he faced a $50 million annual deficit and had to navigate an evolving public transit landscape. His tenure was characterized by a focus on increasing efficiency and maintaining service under dire circumstances, even shrinking Muni's service down to its essentials during the worst of COVID-19. By restructuring Muni to prioritize key services, he ensured a focus on reliability, which was crucial for serving the city's most vulnerable populations.
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Discover
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