BART issues statement in response to passage of transit funding ballot measure

We are grateful to voters in the five Bay Area counties for approving Measure RTM. This public investment allows BART to survive post-pandemic travel patterns, remain the transportation backbone of the region, and modernize our funding model for the next 14 years. It will help pay for service that benefits riders and non-riders alike. 

Measure RTM prevents station closures and dramatic service reductions, but it does not eliminate BART’s financial challenges. Taxpayers and riders are doing their part, and we must continue to do ours. Sales tax revenue will provide BART an estimated $310M annually beginning in FY28, leaving an annual structural shortfall for BART to close. We are committed to greater financial discipline, efficiencies, and meaningful changes in how we operate. 

We will also continue working to grow ridership and strengthen our system financially. BART has seen ridership grow 14% year over year, and we will build on that momentum by providing clean, safe, reliable, and easy-to-use service.

We are thankful to voters, our riders, labor partners, the campaign, elected officials, including Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguin, and organizations such as Bay Area Council and SPUR for their tireless advocacy and commitment. 

Transit is worth the investment. This vote sends a clear message that the Bay Area values a transportation network that prioritizes moving people, not just cars. And BART, as well as all transit in the Bay Area, is necessary to maintain our quality of life.