San Francisco is about to level up its street game, and cyclists are here for it!

The SFMTA is dropping a major safety upgrade on Oak Street that’s going to make your commute way less terrifying. Say goodbye to dodging pedestrians and hello to a brand new protected bike lane between Stanyan and Baker streets. 🙌

Safety First, Cars Second

For years, the North of Panhandle Neighborhood Association has been begging for these improvements, and it looks like their persistence is finally paying off. We’re talking a total street makeover that’ll reduce traffic lanes, add protected cycling infrastructure, and make crossing the notoriously dangerous Oak and Masonic intersection way safer.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Stats are showing serious improvements with similar bike lane projects. The Fell Street bike lane has already reduced car-cyclist-pedestrian collisions by a whopping 38%. Meanwhile, Oak Street has seen collision rates creeping up, making this project not just cool, but crucial.

What’s Actually Changing?

Here’s the tea: 23 parking spaces are getting the boot, flex posts are going up to protect cyclists, and new crossing signals will help pedestrians and bike riders navigate safely. Urban School, which initially pushed back, has now quietly accepted the changes. Looks like progress wins again! 💪