Waymo’s Entry into Market Street: A New Era for Autonomous Driving in San Francisco?
On April 10, Mayor Daniel Lurie made a noteworthy announcement that set the city buzzing: Waymo, the pioneering autonomous taxi service formerly known as the Google Self-Driving Car Project, will soon be making its way down the iconic Market Street in San Francisco. While this revelation may seem like a natural step in the evolution of urban transportation, it raises questions about its implications for this bustling thoroughfare.
A Heartfelt Welcome or a Confounding Decision?
In his press release, Mayor Lurie stated, “Market Street runs through the heart of our city, and we’re making sure it continues to evolve with the times. By welcoming Waymo, we’re adding another safe and sustainable way to access shopping, theaters, hotels, and restaurants.” However, not everyone shares his enthusiasm. Market Street has undergone significant transformations over the past few years, culminating in the closure to private vehicles in 2020, a decision that required a majority vote from the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and the Board of Supervisors.
So, how does Waymo fit into this picture? Historically, the company has operated in San Francisco by navigating intersections but refrained from driving directly down Market Street, following the paths set by other ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. This anomaly begs the question: is Waymo’s entry a regulation shift or merely a symbolic approval from the mayor?
Mixed Reactions from City Officials
Aaron Peskin, former President of the Board of Supervisors, expressed his confusion over Lurie’s announcement. He stated, “If you had asked me, ‘What did you vote to ban on Market Street?’ I would have said to you, ‘Cars!’” He highlighted a puzzling loophole in the Better Market Street Plan that specifically excludes commercial vehicles, which allows Waymo’s fleet of cars—equipped with commercial plates—to operate freely on Market.
The nuances of the regulations reveal that Waymo hasn’t aggressively pursued access to Market until now primarily out of politeness, rather than legality. Waymo’s presence is crucial for stimulating downtown activity, possibly leading to increased foot traffic and consumer spending in the area. Critics, however, argue that it risks undermining the progress made in providing a safe and efficient public transportation experience in the city.
Public Transit at a Crossroads
The timing of the mayor’s announcement is notable, coinciding with recent public transit cuts, specifically to the Muni service, which serves the very streets Waymo plans to occupy. When Mayor Lurie touted the complementary role of Waymo in enhancing transportation options, he failed to mention the cuts threatening existing bus lines on Market. Chris Arvin, Vice Chair of the SFMTA’s Citizens Advisory Council, remarked on the irony of inviting Waymo onto the street while simultaneously limiting the more affordable Muni bus rides.
Arvin pointed out that Muni faces fiscal challenges, with little hope of state or federal bailouts. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining a robust public transit system, he stated, “If you want to revitalize downtown, Muni is crucial to that.” He expressed concerns that the arrival of Waymo would shift priorities from accessible public transport options to more expensive, autonomous rides, posing the question of whether the city is prioritizing commercial interests over public service.
The Growing Challenges of Waymo’s Presence
Adding to the controversy, former Supervisor Dean Preston articulated his frustration regarding the operational safety of Waymo vehicles. Citing incidents where Waymo cars have impeded Muni buses and overwhelmingly obstructed crosswalks, he wrote, “What happened to Transit First?”
The prevailing sentiment is that while Waymo’s technology is revolutionizing transportation, it unfortunately mirrors the obstacles that traditional vehicles pose. Residents express concern that autonomous vehicles could worsen traffic conditions and detract from the city’s efforts to create safer streets.
Conclusion: A Step Into the Future or a Risky Gamble?
In the coming months, as Waymo initiates operations on Market Street, both supporters and detractors will be watching closely. Will this move rejuvenate a segment of downtown San Francisco, or will it complicate existing transit challenges? As the city grapples with these significant transformations, one thing is certain: the future of autonomous driving in urban settings remains a topic ripe for discussion and scrutiny.
Ultimately, as city residents navigate the intersections of innovation and practicality, they will find themselves at the heart of a larger conversation surrounding urban mobility and sustainability. What does this mean for the future of Market Street and the broader landscape of public transportation? Time will tell.
For more insights into San Francisco’s transit developments, check out Mission Local’s coverage.
Images
Waymo blocking part of a crosswalk during a green light for pedestrians. Photo by Parker Day.
Waymo parked and partly obscuring a bike lane near Clay Street on Feb. 28, 2025. Photo by Chris Arvin.
As the streets of San Francisco prepare to welcome this new player in transportation, it’s a moment poised between excitement and trepidation—a definitive chapter in the city’s ongoing evolution.
