BART (Bay Area Rapid Transport) is similar to a short-distance train system, and the BART lines link San Francisco to other cities and further away places. The network is used by over 400,000 people per day.
Average weekday ridership in October was down slightly to 171k, consistent with expected seasonal variation. Weekends saw a boost with Fleet Week and other special events. Saturday ridership, at 100,700 average exits, was 62% of pre-COVID expectations, and Sundays, at 70,900 average exits, was 63%.
Taking the train has long been less expensive than driving when considering bridge tolls and parking — and now it's an even more affordable option when you consider most Bay Area gas stations are charging more than $6 a gallon.
However, like any public transportation system, it's advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, travel in well-lit areas, and be cautious when traveling alone at night. Is BART safe to ride alone? Yes, BART is generally safe to ride alone.
Commitment to Safety & SecurityEnsuring BART Police are riding trains more, increasing their visibility, and keeping riders safe by doubling officer presence systemwide. Rider surveys show police presence increased 90% from quarter to quarter. Average response time is down to 4 minutes.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how Bay Area residents live, work, and travel. It hit BART and all other public transit systems hard, decimating transit ridership and, along with it, the transit fare revenue we rely on to keep trains running. We are in an unprecedented moment, with the survival of BART at risk.