Lydia So's appointment to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Board of Directors received unanimous support during a recent government meeting, marking a significant step towards enhancing representation for diverse communities in the city. The motion to recommend her appointment was passed without objection, following strong endorsements from community leaders who highlighted her extensive experience in urban planning and her commitment to cultural equity.

Mike Chen, a District 2 appointee and former chair of the SFMTA Citizens Advisory Council, praised So's qualifications, emphasizing her ties to various communities, including the Chinese community. "Her experience in urban planning and land use will enable her to excel in transportation," Chen stated, urging the committee to approve her nomination swiftly.

Kevin Ortiz, president of the San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club, echoed this sentiment, noting So's proven track record in advocating for sustainable urban growth. He pointed out that the highest ridership for SFMTA comes from the Asian and Latino populations, underscoring the need for leadership that understands the integral makeup of these communities. "We need people that understand the communities that are riding the bus," Ortiz said, highlighting the importance of representation at a time when transit systems are facing significant challenges.

The meeting also addressed the withdrawal of Vincent Young's nomination to the Sanitation and Streets Commission, which was noted as a separate item on the agenda. With no public comments on this matter, the focus remained firmly on So's appointment, which is seen as a pivotal move towards inclusivity in San Francisco's transportation leadership.

As the recommendation heads to the full board, the anticipation builds for what this appointment could mean for the future of transportation in San Francisco, particularly for communities that have historically been underrepresented.