San Francisco's West Portal intersection to improve safety

A year after a tragic crash killed a family of four in San Francisco's West Portal neighborhood, safety improvements have been made at the intersection where the incident occurred. The crash affected many in the community, including local business owner Diana Zogaric, who expressed their devastation over the loss. In response to the accident, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) has implemented changes to enhance safety. In January, safe-hit posts were installed at two intersections to encourage cars to slow down when turning and to yield to pedestrians. More improvements are planned, including repainting crosswalks and adding a flashing beacon next month. Additionally, new planters and a bikeshare station are expected to be added in May. Some residents support the changes. Brian Jones noted that the modifications have improved traffic flow and clarified right-of-way issues. However, others remain skeptical. Zogaric believes current changes may have complicated traffic patterns without preventing the crash. Supervisor Myrna Melgar's office is also planning a memorial to honor the family and the community's shared grief. Renderings of the memorial have been shared with local news outlets. The driver involved in the crash has pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter.