We are Officially Screwed - Thanks SF Muni and SFMTA

Start the countdown you pissed off citizens...

The $2 bus fare is now official!

The Board of Supervisors did not have enough votes to reject the SFMTA budget (we were that close to giving the finger to Muni) and the first changes will happen at the start of the 2009-2010 fiscal year (July 1, 2009).

We know the fare hike will happen, but it's a little mysterious what and when bus line cuts and modifications will happen. July 1st? That might be a quick shocker to the public.

Strangely, while KPIX doesn't have any info about the official cuts/modifications to the bus and metro lines, SFAppeal reports that Muni "Kingpin" Nat Ford has found a way to increase service to the 14, 38, 44, 47, and 49 lines.

Based on what Nat Ford said... my blog has been targeting the elimination of the 38-Geary Ocean Beach branch; so what does this "increased service" do?
--Will it be a termination of the 38-Geary Ocean Beach branch and an increase in the 38-Geary Fort Miley branch?
--Or will it be the preservation of the 38-Geary Ocean Beach branch with no changes to the 18-46th Avenue?

I'm hoping for the second option.

Now the fare and pass hike is official, it's time for some action planning:

• If you have Muni token tickets, don't buy anymore and start using whatever you have left.
• If you use a commuter benefits program, talk to your HR representative or whoever handles that program and increase it so your voucher has enough to cover it. If you get a pass automatically in the mail, increase the deduction.
• Lastly, if you are finally fed-up with dumping coins and dollar bills in the farebox, get your butt on Translink. They also accept commuter benefits programs!