San Francisco may charge drivers during peak hours

[marmar]

x-posted at the amazing DU Public transportation/smart growth forum.: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=398




from the Marin Independent Journal:



San Francisco may charge drivers during peak hours
By Denis Cuff and Mark Prado


Stephen Chen of Mill Valley uses the bus, ferry and his car to commute to San Francisco - and driving is by far the most expensive.

He is not keen to see a traffic congestion fee in certain parts of the city during rush hour that San Francisco leaders are considering.

"I like the idea of congestion pricing on freeways, but it's about $30 if I drive in already," said Chen, who works in consulting and online marketing. "That's why I don't drive every day. It's $18 for parking, $5 for tolls and the rest for gas. Biking and using the ferry is $8 and the bus is $5. So it's economics."

But commuter Judy Gilbert of Mill Valley said the idea may have merit if it can clear clogged city streets.

"Sure it's an extra fee, but if it allows people to move around more quickly it might make sense," said Gilbert, who works in education research in San Francisco.

To fight gridlock, smog and global-warming gases, San Francisco is considering becoming the first city in the nation to impose congestion-management fees during rush hour to drive into and possibly out of the busiest downtown areas.

Fees from $1 to $4 are being examined in an 18-month study of congestion pricing by the San Francisco County Transportation Authority, an agency governed by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. The money would be invested in public transit and other congestion-reducing measures. .......(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_10130726?IADID=Search-www.marinij.com-www.marinij.com

[hogwyld]

1. I personally think it's a good idea

But I don't think the rich people are going to cut down their Hummer driving. Eventually, driving will be a priveledge only used by the rich as they look down upon us poor serfs.

[DCKit]

2. Ah, but think of it in terms of "Job Creation".

Just think how many will be employed to wash those Hummers daily of the eggs and rotten vegetables that will be launched.

Think of the paint, body and tire shops that will have to double their staffing, the suppliers, the tow truck companies and independent owners....

Everybody (else) wins.