Key Takeaways & Next Steps

This section will discuss our research findings and what are the takeaways from this project. We will also delve into what are some things people want improved on the current public transit lines in regards to quality and service. Lastly, we will discuss what the options are if you are interested in furthering this cause in maintaining public transit.

Our research shows that public transportation is essential to Chinatown’s livelihood.

Who depends on it: A large share of riders are older adults with limited mobility, making transit their only practical way to reach Chinatown. Overall, most survey participants reported being transit-dependent, with walking as their only alternative.
Why it matters: Public transit not only connects locals to daily needs but also brings visitors who support Chinatown’s small businesses. Without reliable service, both residents and merchants would face significant hardship.

Ridership levels: Chinatown bus stops consistently show ridership well above the average for their lines, demonstrating strong demand and underscoring the need to maintain, not reduce, service.

Transit is more than just transportation—it is an economic and cultural lifeline for Chinatown. Maintaining strong service ensures that people across San Francisco can continue to access the neighborhood’s shops, services, and community spaces. Without it, Chinatown risks losing the vibrancy and accessibility that define it today. While protecting public transit service in Chinatown is critical, our community also envisions ways to improve the rider experience. Based on feedback from the intercept survey, the following improvements would make traveling to and from Chinatown more reliable and comfortable:

Looking Ahead & Next Steps

How Can You Help

Are you a community member with insight on transportation, travel patterns, stories of community members, and/or data analysis? Whatever your interest and expertise, TRIP would love to have you shape transit, pedestrian safety, and beyond in Chinatown.

Are you an organization that works on these issues in San Francisco and/or Chinatown? TRIP would love to connect.

Protecting public transportation in Chinatown requires community support. By standing together, we can ensure that transit remains a lifeline for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

For more information or to get involved, please email: ctripsf@gmail.com to get involved in meetings and advocacy, and Cc haron.ng@chinatowncdc.org

Improve reliability: Ensure buses arrive on schedule so riders do not need to worry about missed or delayed service.

Increase frequency: Add more buses during peak hours to reduce overcrowding.
Enhance cleanliness: Maintain clean buses so riders feel comfortable using the service.
Upgrade bus stops: Provide shelters, seating, and other amenities to improve the waiting experience.
And more: Continued community feedback will help identify other opportunities to strengthen service.

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