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Residents not thrilled about new 2-Clement turnaround route
By: Will Reisman
Examiner Staff Writer
10/21/09 12:02 PM PDT
In a situation that’s straight from the “you can’t please them all” files, Muni has finally decided on a site for the western terminus of its 2-Clement bus line, and, not surprisingly, people are upset about it.
Due to budget shortfalls, Muni has been forced to reduce service on several transit lines, and none have been as troublesome as the 2-Clement. Instead of running out to 33rd Avenue, the 2-Clement will now turn around in the middle of the Richmond District (around Park Presidio) and finding an easy side street where the buses can make the return loop has been nearly impossible.
Part of the problem is that the turnaround requires a terminal — an on-street area where the buses can idle. Residents on 14th, 15th, and Funston avenues have all complained that the 2-Clement would clog up traffic, create safety hazards for pedestrians, and take away parking spaces.
After some serious vetting, Muni is experimenting with a six-month trial program for the 2-Clement, with the bus traveling down Park Presidio and 15th Avenue for its turnaround loop in the Richmond District. The terminal will be located on the southern side of Clement street near 14th Avenue.
Predictably, residents on 15th Avenue are peeved that big Muni buses will be rolling down their small street, and the Beth Sholom Congregation, a synagogue on the corner of 14th Avenue and Clement, isn’t thrilled that the terminal will be situated right next to their building, which houses a child care program.
Muni planning official said they will monitor the situation of the 2-Clement, and reevaluate the route after the six-month pilot has expired.
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