Lasting Impression

Wow, I can't believe this is it. My very last blog about the Richmond. It seems like just yesterday I was sitting on the 38 Geary contemplating the first one.

But what an experience it has been. When I first started reporting I had no idea what to expect. I didn't know anything about the neighborhood; I had never really spent any time there.

Fast Forward almost four months to today and I can say that has all changed. The once unfamiliar neighborhood is now familiar. That in itself seems like an accomplishment considering the overall size of the neighborhood.

So what can I say about my time spent in the Richmond this semester? Well, I learned a lot about a neighborhood that I had known nothing about, I met many fascinating people, I saw a lot of cool places, and I ate some AMAZING food. I think that was one of my favorite parts-having an excuse to eat (what can I say, I'll do anything for school).

But really, I am so happy I had this opportunity to learn about an area of San Francisco I probably would have otherwise continued to overlook. I can honestly say that I believe the Richmond District encompasses many of the qualities that people love most about San Francisco. It is truly diverse with its own unique cultural identity and it has a rich history.

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

A look at how Richmond is getting in the holiday spirit.

MUNI Service Changes

Due to a more than $120 million deficit in SFMTA's budget this year nearly 60 percent of MUNI's lines are set to undergo some change beginning this Saturday, December 5.

Changes will affect MUNI lines all over the city, including much of the Richmond District. Here is a quick overview of some of the changes that will directly affect the neighborhood.

• 1 California: Service hours will be reduced and segments South of Sacremento St. on Howard, Davis, Main, Beale and Drumm Streets will be eliminated
• 2 Clement: Service between 14th and 33rd Ave. will be eliminated. The 2 Clement will also now go to Ferry Plaza daily, including weekends.
• 5 Fulton: Frequency will increase during peak periods and service will extend to the Transbay Terminal. Owl service will also begin earlier.
• 18 46th Ave. : Service hours will be reduced and the bus will be re-routed along some areas. Segments will also be eliminated along Geary Blvd. and Point Lobos Ave.
• 29 Sunset: Service will be reduced and segments north of Baker Beach in the Presidio will be eliminated
• 30 Balboa: Frequency and service hours will be reduced
• 38 Geary: Segments of the 38 Geary and the 38 Geary Owl will be eliminated near Ocean Beach. The 38L Geary Limited however, will increase frequency and expand hours

For a complete list of all the service changes and alternatives, see MUNI's letter to customers and details by route. Also, don't forget that fastpasses will go up to $70 per month beginning in January.