SF Weighs Real Estate Tax Rollback, Transit Hearings as Funding Pressures Mount

San Francisco’s policy agenda is moving quickly as leaders tackle housing costs, transit funding and long-term economic recovery.

BUILD Act Targets Transfer Taxes

Mayor Daniel Lurie and Supervisor Bilal Mahmood have introduced the BUILD Act, a proposal to roll back portions of the city’s transfer tax on large real estate deals.

The measure would cut transfer tax rates in half for properties valued above $10 million, returning them to pre-2020 levels. Supporters say the change could help restart stalled housing and commercial projects by making San Francisco more competitive with other major cities.

City officials frame the proposal as a way to spur development while maintaining revenue neutrality through other reforms. With downtown vacancies still elevated, the debate over how to balance tax revenue and economic growth is likely to intensify in the weeks ahead.

Transit Changes and Public Hearings

On the transportation front, Muni rerouted several Market Street lines over the weekend to accommodate a large demonstration near Civic Center. The temporary changes underscored how central the corridor remains to the city’s transit network.

Meanwhile, transportation officials have scheduled an April 3 public hearing on proposed traffic and infrastructure changes. Residents will have a formal opportunity to weigh in on adjustments that could affect street design, circulation and safety.

Transit funding remains a major concern. Local advocates are gathering support for revenue measures expected to appear on the November 2026 ballot, aimed at stabilizing Muni and regional systems facing structural deficits.

Federal Scrutiny on Airport Funds

Adding another layer of financial oversight, federal officials are increasing scrutiny of how California spends jet fuel tax revenue tied to airport infrastructure. San Francisco International Airport is among several facilities with pending federal capital funding.

The review could shape how quickly future airport projects move forward and highlights the complex funding streams that support the region’s transportation system.

From housing incentives to transit hearings and federal oversight, San Francisco’s policy landscape this week reflects a city working to align growth, infrastructure and fiscal stability.

Sources

https://www.gtlaw.com/-/media/files/insights/alerts/2026/03/gt-alertsan-franciscos-build-act-proposed-transfer-tax-reductions-to-stimulate-housing-and-commercial-development.pdf
https://news.moovitapp.com/en/news/sf-muni-reroutes-market-street-for-march-event_22_2026-03-28_1774713608643
https://news.moovitapp.com/en/news/sf-opens-april-3-hearing-on-traffic-changes_22_2026-03-26_1774540809695
https://953thebeach.com/2026/03/28/feds-ramp-up-scrutiny-in-yearslong-dispute-over-california-airport-money/