One of the biggest differences between NYC and SF is the car culture, and it was one of my biggest fears when moving out here. I loved not having to touch a car for over 2 years.
No matter how progressive SF is, the best they/we can do is drive a hybrid, because the infrastructure just isn't there.
I thought the NYC bus/metro system was tough to figure out when I got there, but the one in SF is even more confusing and doesn't cover as much ground.
I suspect this has a lot to do with density, and SF not having the population to sustain a full blown system. But the real deal breaker is the car culture. Californians, not unlike Texans (my other other identity), LOVE their cars. SF may not be considered bad by normal suburban standards, but head down the peninsula and you see places like Palo Alto, Menlo Park. Mountain view where cars are an obsession!
Anyway, all this kicked in when I was standing in the Long Term parking looking at my little mazda3 lost in a sea of cars. I'd never even considered so many people would leave cars in long term parking.
So, what can I do? One of my biggest regrets in NYC was not getting involved in Transportation Alternatives (transalt.org ?). I was always travelling and missing events. SF is perfect for riding/cycling, so I definitely want to get involved with something similar here.
Anyone know where I should look?
(Sent from a Blackberry Curve)
