BART rescue measure easily clears signature hurdle. Next stop: November ballot.
Mission Local • • business
Key Points:
- Connect Bay Area has surpassed its signature-gathering goal with approximately 305,000 signatures, qualifying a five-county BART rescue measure for the November ballot, well above the required 186,000.
- The proposed sales tax measure aims to raise an estimated $310 million to address BART's looming $376 million deficit, helping to prevent severe service cuts, maintenance reductions, or potential agency collapse.
- The measure, which also supports other regional transit agencies, requires only a majority vote across San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties, with recent polling showing 56% approval.
- Independent financial efficiency reviews will be mandated for transit agencies receiving funds, with penalties including withholding money for non-compliance.
- The campaign's success was bolstered by volunteers, especially transit workers who significantly exceeded signature expectations, and now shifts focus to fundraising and campaigning to ensure passage in November.