Bay Area Sales Tax Hike Criticized as Move to Discourage Driving

A proposed multi-county sales tax increase in the Bay Area is facing criticism from those who argue its true aim is to discourage driving, rather than solely to fund public transportation and alleviate congestion. The measure, known as Measure RTM, would raise approximately $1 billion annually for 14 years and is set to appear on the November ballot.

Critics contend that the activists and groups heavily involved in promoting the tax have an agenda to reduce car dependency. They point to advocacy for fewer driving lanes, reduced parking, increased tolls, traffic calming measures, and the redesign of streets to disincentivize driving. Publications like Streetsblog have been cited for labeling certain arterial roads as "traffic sewers" and advocating for bike lanes that reduce space for vehicles.

Funding from the sales tax increase is primarily presented as support for transit agencies. However, concerns are being raised about the fungibility of funds, suggesting that money allocated to transit could be redirected towards projects that impede driving. Groups like Bike East Bay are actively campaigning for the measure, promoting a vision of a "more bike-friendly Bay Area" and asserting that "biking is political."

This approach is not unique to the Bay Area, with similar strategies being observed in other parts of California. In Los Angeles, Measure HLA mandates the installation of bike, bus, and pedestrian projects whenever qualifying streets are resurfaced, potentially reducing lane space for cars. San Diego has adopted a Mobility Master Plan that prioritizes projects aimed at encouraging residents to reduce car commuting, coupled with efforts to lower speed limits and redesign streets.

These initiatives are occurring despite significant advancements in vehicle technology and safety. Modern gasoline cars emit substantially less pollution than their predecessors, and electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions. The U.S. traffic fatality rate has also decreased considerably compared to past decades. Additionally, shifts towards remote work, online services, and delivery options have reduced the necessity for daily commutes.

Opponents argue that the proposed sales tax hike, which would add between 0.50% and 1% to purchases, would further exacerbate the Bay Area's affordability issues. They suggest that while public transit faces challenges, including issues with cost control, safety, and sanitation, these problems can be addressed without a substantial new tax that primarily benefits agencies seeking to discourage driving. The Committee for Affordable Bay Area Transit, No on Measure RTM, and the California Policy Center are among the organizations opposing the measure.