tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-173475132024-03-07T00:23:03.024-08:00BART MusingsPeoplewatching, eavesdropping, and more on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) *** Rants from a reluctant public transportation rider.bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.comBlogger626125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-83903628250166052102016-03-23T09:28:00.001-07:002016-03-23T11:15:04.367-07:00Raise your hand if you hate BART?With fewer cars in prime commute hour BART trains, I definitely am feeling the impact. As if BART wasn't crowded enough before the mysterious train car issues forcing them to take trains out of service, it is even worse now. <br />
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I thought after riding BART for nearly 15 years, I've seen it all. Well, I've experienced a few not so lovely firsts today. More to add to my reasons for hating BART.<br />
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I've never had 3 homeless in one train car before. Apparently fewer cars also mean fewer places for them to sleep. In my train this morning, one was sleeping on the seat, one on the ground, and one against the door. We all know what that means in a very crowded train. You simply can't escape the smell and there really is no room to hide from it. You just brave the smell. Deal with it. <br />
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I've also never seen anyone smoke on BART until today. One passenger was smoking on the West Oakland platform and carried the cigarette in. Plenty of passengers including myself told him to throw it out. He waited until the moment the door closed to toss out his cigarette but then blew the smoke in our faces as the door shut. I still can smell that smoke...mentally. It was unbearable in an already inhumanely crowded train that stunk.<br />
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Yesterday, I heard from a coworker that someone vomited on the train. I felt so bad for her. That is just about the worst thing that can happen (with the exception of a train accident). I hope she isn't sick today from being exposed to the virus and/or bacteria.<br />
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So back to my question in the title of this post. Raise your hand if you hate BART! <br />
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Both my hands are raised. I hate it. I wish we had better options to get from 925 area code to SF.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-91994670063740749622016-01-27T09:53:00.002-08:002016-01-27T09:54:26.585-08:005 Types of 'Creeps' on BARTI'm a social person but I don't make an effort to socialize with fellow passengers on BART, and I think people prefer it that way. In the mornings, we're all waking up and just trying to get to work on time. Who really wants someone striking a random conversation? And in the evenings, we just want to get home and are likely exhausted from a long day. Last thing I want is for someone to chat with me about where I live and what I do for work in front of everyone! Now there are times when conversations are ok and that's usually when we ALL have something in common-- like grunting about a medical emergency or laughing about a train operator's attempt to entertain the masses.<br />
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I encountered a creep today who was trying to either strike a conversation or trying to be physically closer to me. Either way, it's creepy, uncomfortable and just weird. This inspired me to write today's post -- 5 types of creeps on BART! Tell me if you've encountered any of these guys!</div>
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1) People who stare at your phone screen and think it is OK to talk to you about the subject on your screen!! This also applies to people who volunteer their opinions on a book you're reading.</div>
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2) People who can hold the bar at any other position on the safety bar but INSISTS on holding it right next to your hand and have the hands touch! Seriously? Move an inch over at least!! Gross!</div>
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3) People who make eye contact with you from afar and won't look away. And every time you try to discretely check with a side eye glance, he or she is looking...I mean, STARING! </div>
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4) People who think just because you are standing uncomfortably close to each other, it means you MUST TALK. No, we don't! Please don't ask me where I live, what I do, and where I park at the BART station. I don't care to share anything with you. I just want to read my emails or close my eyes.</div>
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5) People who have the choice to stand elsewhere but they insist on SQUEEZING into the highly sought after window standing box in cars where there is a train operator's seat. Do you know what I'm talking about? There usually is a standing space for ONE inside the window box right across from the train operator's door. I don't understand why some people insist on squeezing their way into the space when they can stand right outside of it. It's not meant for 2 adult standing passengers who are strangers.</div>
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There are probably more types of creeps on BART but these 5 irk me most! Don't be a creep! Just mind your own business and look at your own phone. </div>
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bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-75415152634713757212016-01-19T13:40:00.000-08:002016-01-19T13:40:45.602-08:00Did you feel like fainting today too? If you took BART into the city today, you knew how horribly delayed the trains were! I just read that there were apparently 3 fires this morning on the tracks, although I have no idea why stormy weather would cause that.<br />
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Additionally, BART was dealing with medical emergencies too! Not surprised. The longer we are all stuck on the train, the more likely people are going to faint, because as we all know, temperature is either too hot or too cold. It is never just right, and never adjusted. I was on a train this morning that felt like a sauna, especially with all the wetness on the ground from dripping umbrellas and raincoats. The train windows were completely fogged up, some so moist that they were dripping! We were packed like sardines, swaying right to left, as the train jerked to sudden stops (would it hurt to make more gradual stops so people aren't falling?) I looked around to see who might be the first to lose consciousness. We had to hold for 5 additional minutes due to a medical emergency in a train ahead. The ride was miserable!! <br />
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Then I read this: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/3-BART-passenger-on-different-trains-faint-in-6769399.php<br />
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Only 3? There were probably others that didn't require the medical crew or didn't make it on the news! If I fainted briefly, I wouldn't ask the med crew to come-- I'd exit the train, drink some water, catch my breath and re-enter a train when I feel better. Why stop the train by 5-10 minutes just because you briefly lost consciousness? It's caused by the crazy heat and lack of oxygen! If you feel woozy, then step out to get some air!<br />
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Hope the ride home is smoother for everyone today!!! Don't faint! <br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-3791276836608529002016-01-07T15:14:00.002-08:002016-01-07T15:48:20.598-08:00What are the chances BART will be delayed?? Here's my take!If you're a daily commuter, you'd know these causes for delays quite well. Would you agree with my take on how often these delays happen?<br />
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Assuming we commute 5 days a week using BART:<br />
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2 out of 5 days we would run into delays caused by some type of 'medical emergency' (typically someone fainting due to lack of air and anxiety caused by overcrowding)<br />
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1 out of 5 days we would run into 'police activities' at a station<br />
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1 out of 7 days we would run into 'track problems'<br />
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If it's raining, then you'll run into 'track problems' 4 out of 5 days! Am I not right!?<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-47767110899364593452016-01-07T11:28:00.002-08:002016-01-07T11:28:11.107-08:00New year and new commitment to revive BARTMusingsOne of many resolutions I have is to revive BARTMusings. Plenty of thoughts go through my head during rides that can make a blog post but Internet access while on BART is so sketchy that I can barely get on a website, and by the time I get to work, my BART experience becomes a distant memory as I'm shuffling myself from meetings to meetings.<div>
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Hopefully this post will keep me accountable because I still have PLENTY to say about BART. </div>
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Happy 2016 everyone! I wish you a year with better commutes and if not, you can always complain here!</div>
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bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-21161350157739711162015-03-23T10:57:00.002-07:002015-03-23T10:57:32.582-07:00Well, that is a first!Wow, has it been 3 months since my last post? Where did the time go?<br />
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Well, today I did something I've not done in 13+ years of riding BART. I actually fell on another passenger, and not just any passenger, a sleeping passenger! An older man who was deep asleep.<br />
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I was multi-tasking, with both hands on my phone, ferociously typing away an urgent work email. The train suddenly stopped and I couldn't hold myself upright. I fell left and knew I was going to land on this man's body, and already imagined what he would say when he wakes up to the impact. <br />
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All I could do is give my biggest smile after I said OH SHIT! He woke up, saw my smile and luckily, smiled back and said, it's OK. The surrounding passengers got a good laugh as I gathered myself to upright position.<br />
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In this case, really glad I'm female, not too heavy, and appeared to be a clean person. He took the impact pretty well.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-86904449691853472112014-12-03T13:11:00.001-08:002014-12-04T22:24:19.817-08:00(Updated) Station Agent Ed from Orinda -- A man who's transforming BART's imageIf you board at the Orinda Station, I'm sure you know who I am talking about! His name is Ed, he's a station agent, and he goes above and beyond to help passengers. You can count on him to get out of the windowed box and say hi, good night, or have a good day, when you pass the turnstiles. He smiles, he waves and his actions are making a difference, at least for me.<br />
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If you've been reading BARTMusings, you'll know that 90% of my posts are focused around negative encounters, with the other 10% being funny or straight-up ridiculous passenger observations. Well, this one is positive and I want to express my thanks to Ed for caring more than any station agent I've seen in the last 16 years.</div>
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My husband and I both take BART, he takes it daily, while I only go into SF 2-3 times a week. Ed's greetings, no matter how much we dread the ride into SF, make us smile back. </div>
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It is so shocking (and perhaps it shouldn't be) that a station agent voluntarily comes out of the window to interact with passengers. In the past, I've had to say 'excuse me' at least twice for a station agent to acknowledge me. Other times, they don't talk back at all to me, nor make any eye contact, and act like I've interrupted them as they let my ticket through.</div>
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But Ed, he talks, he smiles, he walks around, he waves, and you know what? <b>He cares!</b></div>
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He told me that he voluntarily comes to the station an hour before his shift starts to prepare for the day and to make sure everything is in order! And he knows he won't get paid for that time. Wow...especially after the BART strikes, this genuine action of care from an agent is unfathomable! </div>
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Last week, I took my 6 year old to work with me (since school was out) and Ed introduced himself and showed nothing but enthusiasm and friendliness. It was my son's 2nd BART experience (not counting the times he was an infant and can't remember) and it was a much more pleasant one starting with Ed's actions. I've warned him plenty of times about BART-- to not touch anything, to not stare, to get out of people's way, to stand on the right side of the escalator, to not step in yellow puddles, to not talk to drunk homeless people at Montgomery, and all types of rules and warnings. But all he really needed to think of BART more favorably was a friendly face.</div>
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Ed, THANK YOU! I don't know if this will get you in trouble, hopefully not, but if not, I'd also love to add a photo of you! I'll ask you in-person tomorrow :)</div>
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<b>BART management--- Do you know Ed? If not, you should! He's become a very popular face in the Orinda BART station and he alone is changing the damage many other BART employees have caused through the years on the organization's public image!</b></div>
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<b>Do you know another great BART employee?? I'd love to know if there's someone else like Ed out there. </b><br />
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<b>UPDATE (12/4) I handed a copy of the post to Ed today. He was so happy and a little emotional. He was denied a promotion today by BART. He said this post was exactly what he needed. Photo of him holding the post proudly. Keep up the great work, Ed! BART management-- I hope you'll reconsider his promotion.</b><br />
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bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-75383193380897429892014-11-17T17:01:00.002-08:002014-11-17T17:01:32.969-08:00BYOS? Bring Your Own Seat on BART...is it allowed?This isn't the first time I've seen it on BART. It's not a bad idea and there are actually quite a few styles of portable seat options out there. Would you ever use one? Would it ever become popular on BART? People stared at this man, but why? He's comfortable, he's not taking a ton of space, at least no more than a person with a large backpack. I can't imagine this being the norm on BART but why not? And what IS the norm on BART anyways?? <br />
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Your thoughts?<br />
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bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-32277954189366196492014-10-02T22:12:00.001-07:002014-10-03T14:57:29.478-07:00BART Survival Tips during Conference SeasonThis is conference season, if you haven't noticed already. Yes, those people wearing colorful badges around their necks, wandering on Market Street. They are here, getting in our way, because of Oracle OpenWorld and very soon, Dreamforce. I still remember how horribly crowded BART was last year during Dreamforce and watching normal people turning into savages, as they pushed their way onto the overcapacity trains. <br />
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Since I've witnessed this mass migration to Moscone Center every fall, I thought I'd share some pointers on how you can survive BART and get to your destination during this insane conference season.</div>
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#1 Don't get on the train at Powell, Montgomery or Embarcadero. If you can, walk backwards to Civic Center, if you want to get on a train.</div>
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#2 If you are carrying a big backpack, put it on the ground. If you leave it on, you are taking up extra space. Trust me, when it gets crowded, people will unleash their rage and push you down. I saw it happen last year.</div>
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#3 Even if there is no room on the train, walk as far in as possible. Those who stand near the doors will be shoved and pushed in as people from Montgomery and Embarcadero attempt to get on the trains.</div>
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#4 Chew strong flavored gum. People around you will be grateful, but you're also masking unwanted scents around you. It works. I depend on my extra strong Ice Breakers during a crowded ride home.</div>
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#5 People will push when trains get that crowded. Stand with you feet apart to brace yourself.</div>
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#6 Get used to being touched. You'll be intimately close with the passengers around you. Wear a coat if it's not too hot to protect yourself just a little bit. </div>
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#7 Don't be an idiot. Put away, no, actually HIDE your conference chotchkies. You're asking to be a target. </div>
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#8 If you're riding with a buddy who was also at the conference, please just be quiet. The rest of us don't want to hear which sessions you attended and who you got to meet. When there isn't enough air for everyone to breath inside the train, don't take up extra by talking, please.</div>
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#9 It still makes a difference walking to the very first or very last train. Might still be crowded but at least your chances getting on are a bit higher in those two.</div>
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#10 I've not tried this one yet but this year I just might if the conditions are as bad as last year's. If you can afford to, offer someone who has a seat $20 (or whatever amount) to let you sit down. WHY NOT?? At least you'll have a bit of personal space (although on a very dirty chair). </div>
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Oh, and a message to Marc Benioff. BART is always more crowded during Dreamforce than Oracle OpenWorld-- you definitely win the attendance rivalry. BART commuters FEEL it...literally.<br />
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If the Giants can advance to NLCS, the trains will be un-humanly crowded, but I won't complain about that! Let's Go Giants! #ORANGEOCTOBER</div>
bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-3833102377146669632014-08-29T11:01:00.000-07:002014-08-29T11:01:02.192-07:00Have you tried the new BART Watch App?? Does that mean more delays due to 'police activities?'I immediately downloaded the new <a href="http://www.bart.gov/news/articles/2014/news20140828" target="_blank">BART Watch</a> app because I wasn't confident that BART (or its vendor) could make an app that was easy enough to use even in offline situations. I have to applaud them, however, for finally realizing that publicly announcing a suspicious character using the train-wide intercom to speak with the operator, is not exactly the smartest nor safest way to report crime. <br />
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I was searching for a crime to report via the app yesterday but didn't see anything that would warrant police attention. (Side note: I almost reported a drunken homeless man in Montgomery Station masturbating as a crime but decided not to get myself involved with that) <br />
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Have any of you tried it yet? I also question whether this will mean more stopped/delayed trains due to 'police activities'? What is the vetting process here? Will every crime reported by checked out?<br />
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The app does appear to be very easy to use, which is great. Safety is important but if numerous fake reports cause constant delays, I will be so annoyed.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-77579900088537716232014-07-28T21:44:00.000-07:002014-07-28T21:46:15.301-07:00BART's new 'stretching out' on street ban is GREAT! Let me tell you why!<a href="http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/BART-starts-enforcing-rules-on-sitting-at-Powell-5636846.php" target="_blank">BART police is now banning sleeping, stretching out at the Powell Station</a> during the day and I think it's quite a smart move. No, it's not because I can't stand the smell of homeless and their wastes, really, it's not that! The reason I think the ban is needed is because of safety. There are different types of safety violations when you have a homeless person sleeping at every corner, or sometimes, just in the middle of the street or walkway. <br />
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Safety violation #1: I've seen homeless people sleep at the top of stairs and escalators, causing people to trip at the top of the escalators because suddenly, 2 rows of people need to hop over a homeless man wrapped in a thick blanket. He left 5 inches of clearance for everyone to somehow squeeze through. And homeless at the top of the stairs is not much better although you do have more time to walk over them at your own pace, versus an escalator.</div>
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Safety violation #2: The human waste problem at any of the downtown stations is getting out of hand. Flowing urine greets me daily, and there's now more feces than 6 months ago too. The homeless sleeps in one spot and then turns to the nearest corner (sometimes not) to relief themselves. It's unhealthy.</div>
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Safety violation #3: The weather has been too nice and the laying out issue has magnified because of it. They are warm, happy, topless, and high. There's also shopping carts everywhere along with plastic bags full of things. It's like walking through an obstacle course. You step on something, you get yelled at, viciously.</div>
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Safety violation #4: Well, this would just be the folks who are mentally ill and scream at you as you walk by them. They lay out, they people watch, they comment on what you wear, what you look like, and sometimes even what they want to do to you. It's verbal assault. </div>
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I'm not against the homeless taking shelter at the stations. I enjoy the energy and positivity of some homeless performers-- it's very refreshing and it's such a healthy attitude to have. I take time to listen, drop a dollar, and say hi. But the stretching out ban targets another type and I think it's a step in the right direction for our safety!</div>
bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-10351074838361666592014-07-18T15:44:00.001-07:002014-07-18T15:44:21.271-07:00Welcomed back by the smell of urine at Montgomery I've been on maternity leave for about 4 months and returned to work this week. One of the best things about being on leave is that I have not touched or smelled BART the entire time. So far, BART has been fairly on time with no medical emergencies, train door issues, technical problems, etc, and even the trains have been kept fairly clean! Well, that is until I stepped out of the train and onto the steps of the Montgomery station. <br />
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<b>POOF!</b> The overpowering scent of urine welcomed me back to work! I read on SFGate that the city is cutting back on water use, therefore, decreasing street cleaning efforts in early mornings. I am feeling (I mean, smelling) the impact of that policy but heck, we need to conserve water right?? Suddenly it seemed very very real-- I am back to the grind and back to holding my breath for 30 seconds until I get into my building! Thank goodness I work just steps away from the station!! <br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-76169060001564514022014-03-13T07:25:00.000-07:002014-03-13T07:25:00.207-07:00On the rise? Jumping onto the BART tracks According to SF Weekly, there are about 100 attempted suicides related to BART tracks each year. On Tuesday, March 11th, there was another one-- this time at Balboa Park station where someone jumped in and was stuck under the train. This caused massive delays systemwide, trapping many commuters on the platforms and preventing more from even entering the stations. It took my husband more than 90 minutes to get home. On top of this BART mess, there was also a big fire at Mission Bay/SOMA, causing traffic jams, MUNI delays, etc. It was definitely one of the worst commuting days in the Bay Area and a great evening to stay late at work or go dine in a nice SF restaurant somewhere instead of heading home!<br />
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I don't have the numbers handy but it seems like so far this year, there have been more frequent suicide attempts. This sounds awful but aren't there more effective ways to take your own life? Or we people all motivated by House of Cards, watching how Frank Underwood got rid of his Zoe Barnes problem?<br />
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When I'm caught in a delay and I hear that it's a suicide attempt, I am a bit more understanding but know that I won't be getting home for a long time. When I hear that it's due to a broken door (caused by selfish passengers who hold the door opens as they close automatically), I am not so understanding and I get pissed. When I hear it's a medical emergency, which usually isn't a real emergency, but it causes at least a 20 minute delay because they have to treat the patient INSIDE the train, I am annoyed. <br />
Whatever the cause of delay is...rain, train track problems, earlier back-up....BART generally is off schedule during prime commute hours. Sometimes by a couple minutes and sometimes by 8+ minutes. We are more or less used to it and don't expect on time arrival consistently. But if you want to know why BART riders are so miserable and grumpy and anti-social? That's why.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-7211477822746637642014-03-12T11:08:00.000-07:002014-03-12T11:08:18.318-07:00Responses I get when I ask for a seat...while VERY pregnantPregnancy is certainly not an excuse for the long hiatus I've taken from updating this blog. But nevertheless, I am 9 months pregnant now and ready to not be anymore.<br />
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I really didn't start showing until past 7 months and felt fine standing even in the most crowded conditions. However, the last 4 weeks have been tougher and there really isn't a doubt that sitting is safer than bumping left and right on a brake-happy train.<br />
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I find it easier to ask on behalf of other people in need of a seat than for myself. It's a little different for me, not sure why. I try to avoid it if I feel physically strong for the day but there are times when I feel completely worn out and in need of resting my numb legs after a long day.<br />
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You'd be surprised the type of responses I get. Here are a few examples for your amusement, and mind you, mostly from men:<br />
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1) You're pregnant? You don't look big enough to be?<br />
2) Don't cover yourself with a jacket, how am I supposed to know you're pregnant?<br />
3) Yeah, yeah, just take it, I'm getting off at the next stop anyways<br />
4) Sigh...ugh....let me finish up an email<br />
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To be fair 90% of the time, there is someone who voluntarily offers his/her seat. And they do it very willingly and politely.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-50877757234067236822013-10-18T09:45:00.000-07:002013-10-18T09:45:09.690-07:00Want a job at BART? Check this out!If I can make decisions for BART, I would 1) terminate relationships with all unionized employees, 2) search for new candidates under a generous and fair compensation and benefits plan that won't cripple the system, 3) welcome back those employees who are willing to work under unrepresented conditions, 4) shorten training program by 50% (come on, the trains are semi-automated, and if you hire smarter people, it wouldn't take months to train new drivers!) while using the 20+ managers who right now know how to operate the trains. Passengers will need to suck it up for a few weeks but most would be willing to do so to end this unionized nonsense, and 5) start BART operations anew with new staff.<div>
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Of course, this is just me sharing my would-be actions without understanding the legal ramifications. However, through my dreaming this up, I found the BART job boards. I wanted to see how much qualifications were required to apply to work as a station agent, train operator, maintenance crew, security, etc. The answer is? Not much! Any of us can do it...truly.</div>
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Check it out! http://www.bart.gov/about/jobs/descriptions/</div>
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bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-76383342117045041272013-10-17T16:45:00.001-07:002013-10-17T16:45:40.917-07:00The BART seat pecking orderWith the BART strike appearing likely tonight, I feel like I need to lighten things up by addressing an awkward situation we encounter daily. For some of us, we flat out prefer to stand on BART to avoid contact with the old cloth seats. I usually stand, but on occasions especially at the end of the day, when one of the refurbished trains approach, I don't mind taking a rest on one of the plastic seats. <br />
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There is an unsaid rule that women should sit over men. I don't really think that should be the case but I feel that a lot of men do feel pressured to allow female passengers to take an open seat even if it's right next to them. Poor tired men who actually want to sit. Just do it...it's fine, chivalry is not necessary (or expected) on BART IMHO.<br /><br />
Based on what I've seen in more than 11 years of taking BART, this is the pecking order when it comes to seats:<br />
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1) Handicapped-- yep, no argument there, they should always have a seat, anywhere. Or if they have a cast and crutches, they should sit.<br />
2) Obese passengers - I don't mean overweight, I mean so large that they need two seats. I think to ease their pain and embarrassment, please just get up for them quietly and let them sit down!<br />
3) Elderly-- this is a tricky one. Some who look very old are insulted when you offer them one, and others who have barely 20 gray hairs boot you out of your seat on the "elderly" badge. If they have a cane, they should sit, no matter where the seat.<br />
4) People with babies or kids -- The kids should sit. It's pretty intimidating to be standing in such a turbulent and crowded environment. If parents are carrying babies, they should sit too. It's dangerous to stand and balance with your baby!<br />
5) Pregnant women -- If someone appears to be in their 3rd trimester, I always give them my seat. But then, it's tricky too...sometimes, someone APPEARS pregnant but are not! Or sometimes, someone barely in their 2nd trimester says, I'm pregnant, and forces out another passenger. Pregnant women can stand, I've been there. Unless you are about to pop, but if that's the case, you shouldn't even be on BART!<br />
6) Overweight passengers-- These are just larger passengers, not obese. I would let them sit because it's not comfortable for them to stand, and they are taking up probably too much standing room. <br />
7) Any other females by proximity to open seat<br />
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Thoughts? I've written about this in the past but I think my order has changed. Obese passengers have moved up on my list.<br />
<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-49815074668536994272013-09-23T14:34:00.001-07:002013-09-23T14:34:24.747-07:00When bad gets worseBART has been delayed pretty much everyday the past week. This morning, there was a 12 minute delay from 925 area code stations to SF. We all know delays means crowded trains. We usually all make that work by being uncomfortably close with other passengers but heck, keep your head down, mind your own business, and we all get to work within the hour. It's fine. We deal with it.<br />
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Today, it was also crowded but what made the ride unbearable were two people taking advantage of the extreme proximity to make out. Yes, they are a couple, but with the lack of fresh air and space already in the train, they really did not need to show their affections so fervently and so publicly. I was luckily 5 feet away from them but there was one man whose face was about two inches from their lip lock (actually tongue lock, I should say.) The man had no room but to stand facing them. It must have been incredibly uncomfortable for him to be part of that exchange. So unsightly, I don't care who you are, don't make out on BART, especially when we are forced to see it.<br />
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But my commute gets worse. And the second part I can't blame BART for at all. I finally got to my building and got on to the elevator. The elevator didn't move, it also wouldn't open again. It pretty much just stayed still. A buzz alarm went off in the elevator and the door still would not open. The elevator just stayed still with the doors shut. I thought someone from the outside would sure need an elevator and the door would open soon enough but as I heard other elevators open up and close, I started to panic a bit. By then I had been in there for more than two minutes. It was another minute before it finally opened up but I was dialing my office manager to seek help from security.<br />
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Monday morning commutes are always eventful. Let's hope I don't get stuck in an elevator again this week.<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-42342568640588917332013-09-05T16:26:00.001-07:002013-09-05T16:26:42.937-07:00This is so OK with me...not!!Seriously, if I weren't two stops away from my exit, I might have risked my life to say something. We all need to stretch but this? Seriously? Can you see me (dark denim on bottom left) try to move my leg as far as possible to his shoe??<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubsuWG9-zhjWTzG4N1upP6ind3XWv-8Xwn05PSzAXNj1TRW0oeomXldL3y0moRekWYgu-pbIqq3VBkdhaLg2qbtqdmfcMYidE9FhI_GJfVnr9Na_ti2bdoplHwGIixYApsWXw8g/s640/blogger-image-1189391987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubsuWG9-zhjWTzG4N1upP6ind3XWv-8Xwn05PSzAXNj1TRW0oeomXldL3y0moRekWYgu-pbIqq3VBkdhaLg2qbtqdmfcMYidE9FhI_GJfVnr9Na_ti2bdoplHwGIixYApsWXw8g/s640/blogger-image-1189391987.jpg"></a></div>bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-62493777531120655762013-08-04T22:28:00.002-07:002013-08-04T22:28:23.656-07:00Governor Jerry Brown calls Cooling Off Period to Avert Strike and Keep Negotiations GoingIt's a temporary fix but I am glad. At least we postpone the worst scenario by one more week. Have a good week everyone-- I will keep sharing my thoughts on the negotiation progress through the week.<br />
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Thanks Jerry, for this one!bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-8034345069484748962013-08-02T10:24:00.000-07:002013-08-02T10:24:06.215-07:00Strike on Monday Highly Likely! Who is watching out for us, the passengers??I am sure you have all heard by now, BART union issued a 72 hour strike notice last night. The unions and BART management seem to be no where close to coming to an agreement. <div>
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According to SF Chronicle, BART medical insurance costs have increased by 251 percent in the past 12 years, from $24.6 million to over $86.4 million next year, while the employees' pay has increased from $25 to $92. Sounds pretty reasonable to me, especially with the lax and generous overtime and sick policy. </div>
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I don't think the rest of us had salaries and benefits that increased by that much in the last 12 years. It's a <a href="http://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/" target="_blank">much higher pace than inflation.</a><br /><div>
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Do I side with management? Not exactly, their salaries make anything else look inequitable. Do I side with unions? Not really. I don't feel that the level of service we, the passengers, receive warrant a significant pay and benefits bump.</div>
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I just want this to be resolved without the need to raise fares. $10+ per day isn't easy for many to afford. It's food for the family, school supplies for kids, money to pay medical bills and drugs, etc. Can anyone please think about the passengers a bit here? We work damn hard to do what we can to support our families and unfortunately, we have to depend on BART to get us to work and back home.</div>
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Who is there to watch out for passengers??? Why don't we have a say?</div>
bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-50640657052178307332013-07-30T15:22:00.000-07:002013-07-30T15:22:15.398-07:00Are you ready for another BART strike? Perhaps there will not be another strike since it does appear the two sides are making some progress and BART management is giving in to some demands but ultimately, it will be us, the passengers who will pay for it, literally!<br />
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SF Business Times reports that the settlement could raise <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/morning_call/2013/07/settlement-could-push-bart-fares-up.html" target="_blank">BART fares by up to 18%.</a> I pay $8.50 daily already. I guess I will expect that to go up to $10 per day. Even more of a reason to work from home for a couple days a week.<br />
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I think employers in Bay Area should start offering commuter benefits, not just pre-tax but actually allow a $80 - $100 commuting allowance per month. Adobe did that before and it was great!<br />
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What do you think? Do you get commuter benefits? bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-6500073699463238102013-07-01T14:53:00.001-07:002013-07-02T11:56:44.048-07:00Learn the facts? Here's something about BART overtime pay you should know.<a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_23221986/daniel-borenstein-prepare-long-hot-summer-bart-negotiations" target="_blank">This article</a> was very helpful in laying out some outrageous facts. And the writer is right, it should come down to what BART can ultimately afford to do. Any additional burden would cripple riders who need the transit system to make an honest living.<br />
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Some of these employees are abusing the system and the policies. I know it's not representative of the entire BART workforce but I'm sure it's not uncommon. It's part of the overall attitude that all of us passengers can attest to.<br />
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What would I rate my daily encounters with BART employees? Probably a C- at best. There is no "customer service" and when I legitimately need assistance with something, I am being treated as if I just woke someone up from a cozy nap and I should be punished.<br />
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I welcome everyone to post the facts here. If this article isn't accurate, I would like to read others. So far, articles I've found represent what this one says.<br />
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http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_23221986/daniel-borenstein-prepare-long-hot-summer-bart-negotiations<br />
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<br />bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-70190333529322976322013-07-01T08:40:00.004-07:002013-07-01T09:13:16.911-07:00It's time for companies to get more mobile!Traffic to across the Bay Bridge is backed up all the way to Concord, on the 680. 24 is completely jammed and takes one hour to get through a mile. Yet, the impact of the BART strike could have been a lot worse if school is in session, and if this wasn't July 4th week when many folks are on break! (I guess we should be thankful that they picked this week to strike? ha!)<br />
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When will companies become a bit more open to remote work? There are video technologies these days to keep the interactions live and keep group work productive, not to mention social collaboration tools to help us become more mobile when we need to be. Heck, there are even tracking tools to see how long it takes someone to respond to an email!</div>
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I am very grateful that I work at a job where it is OK to work remotely-- our equipment was built for remote work from day one. At a time like this, the roads should be left open for those who absolutely need face to face interaction at their jobs (healthcare professionals) to get to where they need to go.</div>
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Ultimately, it makes me a bit angry that we are so dependent on BART and that gives them (management and unions) so much leverage to dictate our ticket prices and others. </div>
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Did you brave the roads today??</div>
bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-50353409278435135492013-06-28T09:55:00.000-07:002013-06-28T09:55:07.690-07:00Ready for a BART strike next week???It looks like a <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/BART-unions-give-notice-of-strike-4630423.php">72 hour notice</a> has been given by the Union, and with the current contract expiring this Sunday at 11:59pm, we should all think of commuting alternatives come Monday should the strike happen! <div>
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I am fortunate enough to have the option to work from home and stay away from the mess if BART shuts down but for everyone else, are ferry, carpool or transbay bus viable alternatives? </div>
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As much as I complain about BART and its dependability and cleanliness, we are so dependent on it. If it truly shuts down one day, the Bay Area economy could fracture. That is way too much power in BART's hands, including the workers. </div>
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Well, what are you going to do next Monday if BART strikes?</div>
bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17347513.post-78457769915763592442013-05-16T11:24:00.000-07:002013-05-16T11:24:18.843-07:005 Best Practices to Keep in Mind When BART is Damn Crowded!This morning, if you haven't heard, there was a nutcase who decided that jumping on top of a BART train at MacArthur station during high traffic hour was a smart idea. Trains were shutdown, even the freeway was shutdown to ensure safety. The massive delays lasted 3-4 hours after the incident.<br />
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Needless to say, the trains were crowded. Piles of people forced their way in at each stop despite there not being anymore room in the trains. It made the usual peak passenger volume seem leisurely. I was literally hugging someone's backpack while another female passenger's rear end was leaning on mine. Way too close for comfort.<br />
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I can't stress enough some courtesy rules people need to follow when trains are this crowded. Please, please, please keep these in mind to make the ride less miserable for the rest of us.<br />
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5 Rules to Keep in Mind<br />
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1) If you have a big backpack, please DROP IT ON THE GROUND! There's no room as it is. Please put your bags on the floor to make room.<br />
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2) Please breath with your nose, not mouth. Our faces are already inches away, it would help to not have to smell what you had for breakfast too, or if you happen to not brush that morning.<br />
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3) Get out of the train to make room for people who need to exit. The train won't leave without you, and really, allowing people off the train would actually create more room inside the train. So move!<br />
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4) On a similar note, if your station is coming up next, just wait until the train stops before you make your move towards the door. People need to get off the train before you can exit. By pushing your way to the door in the middle of the crowd only creates chaos and frustration because there is NO ROOM to move!<br />
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5) Hold your temper. We all hate being delayed and being on an overly crowded train. No need to be nasty. If you don't want to bear the pain, just don't get on the train! You're not entitled.bartmusingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16327844700926513435noreply@blogger.com0