Muni is facing competition from private new shuttle buses with amenities and higher fares.
According to SFGate, a private startup called Leap began offering a "Lombard Express" line with a $6 fare earlier this month, while another called Chariot expanded its routes around the same time.
"In just a week, Leap has drawn attention for its almost clichéd list of San Francisco amenities," CNN wrote. "The five buses are decked out in creamy leather, blue LED lights and reclaimed wood. There's wifi on board (obviously) and outlets for your mobile devices. You can order food and drinks through the Leap app, which also lets you track and board the buses and see who the other riders are. There's iced coffee (Blue Bottle of course), small-batch yogurt, a box of purified water and some $7 raw organic juices."
Tuesday's episode of Forum on KQED Radio takes a look at how these new luxury vehicles are attracting tech workers with deep pockets — and the socioeconomic consequences: "Critics say these private transit options further the divide between the rich and poor, and take resources away from public transportation agencies."
Examiner reported that City Supervisor Mark Farrell called for a hearing on Tuesday to look into the need to regulate businesses like Leap.
"We need to approach regulation in a thoughtful way that allows these services that operate, but sets firm guidelines under which they can operate,” he said.
