Port and SFMTA to unify parking operations under new MOU; port retains gross revenue

SAN FRANCISCO — The Port Commission voted unanimously to authorize an expanded memorandum of understanding with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) to centralize management, operation and enforcement of the Port’s public parking assets.

Jennifer Gee, senior property manager for the southern waterfront, told the commission the MOU would expand SFMTA’s role to include 11 off‑street public parking lots (seven metered lots and four operator‑managed lots) while continuing on‑street management. Gee said the port would continue to retain 100% of gross revenue from parking fees and citations and would reimburse SFMTA for administrative and operational costs under the agreement. She cited fiscal‑year 2023 parking and citation revenues of approximately $21.2 million and said retaining citation revenues and moving away from the lease model should increase net return to the port.

Under the current lease model, private operators kept roughly 33% of gross revenues for leased lots; the proposed MOU would replace expired leases and bring most off‑street lots under SFMTA’s operational umbrella. Staff noted initial setup costs for pay stations and signage; a $200,000 Caltrans grant will help offset purchase and installation of 28 multi‑space pay stations.

Commissioner questions focused on revenue retention compared with the lease model, maintenance roles and how the port’s own maintenance staff would be considered. Staff confirmed the port retains first right of refusal on maintenance work and that the port will partner with SFMTA contractors if specialized work is required.

Why it matters: Centralizing parking under SFMTA is intended to modernize operations, capture citation revenue, improve enforcement and provide consistent signage, rates and enforcement across port property.

The commission approved Resolution 2579 to proceed with the MOU and implementation steps.