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San Francisco Starts Market Street Vehicle Pilot With Waymo, Uber Black and Lyft Black

City officials are running the change as a time-limited test to collect safety metrics, customer feedback, demand data.

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Market Street in San Francisco. (Aug. 26, 2025)

Overview

  • After a five-year ban on private cars, the corridor reopened on Aug. 26 for pickups and drop-offs at seven marked bays during off-peak periods.
  • Waymo robotaxis may operate 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and 7 p.m.–6 a.m., while Uber Black and Lyft Black are permitted 7 p.m.–6 a.m.
  • The SFMTA began monitoring operations on day one and says hours and locations could be adjusted based on findings.
  • Pedestrian, cycling and transit groups protested the launch, citing risks to Muni reliability and pedestrian safety, as merchants welcomed easier customer access.
  • Taxi advocates criticized the plan for privileging premium rides over regulated cabs, raising equity concerns for low-income, disabled and senior riders.