Back in the poop filled streets of San Francisco, the area’s rapid transit system, known as “BART” is on the verge of collapse, unless Greasy Gavin can get San Francisco a $759 million loan to keep the trains running. Just another wonderful day in California.
A computer malfunction on Friday morning disrupted the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, stranding commuters and highlighting the system’s critical role just days before a crucial funding deadline.
The disruption serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences if funding for BART and other transit systems is not secured. A $750 million loan is needed by next week to prevent severe service cuts, with the decision resting on negotiations between state officials and local transit agencies.
Watch the full report from KRON4’s Stephanie Rothman in the video player above.
“BART, MUNI, AC, CALTRAIN, VTA, it’s essential, it’s not optional,” said California State Senator Scott Wiener, emphasizing the importance of these systems to the Bay Area. “And when these systems shut down, people can’t get to work, can’t get to school and it explodes traffic on our freeways.”
Sen. Wiener (D-San Francisco) warned that without securing the loan, BART could face collapse, with MUNI potentially reducing service by up to 50%, and CALTRAIN and ACTRANSIT also facing significant cuts. “It will be absolutely terrible for the Bay Area,” he stated.