UPDATE! Since this post went up 45 minutes ago, Muni has removed the apology from its site. We expect a new statement to be issued any minute, declaring that Muni regrets nothing, would do it all over again, and you'll never get me alive, coppers.

It's not as good as getting the trains running on time, but it's a start. Muni leaders have clearly been in over thier heads for the last few days, with trains running ridiculously unpredictably. The inauguration of the T line's thrown the whole system into a tizzy; and so far, dealing with it has simply been beyond the abilities of the people who are supposed to be running the show.

But perhaps your justifiable rage will be somewhat soothed by Muni boss Nat Ford's mea culpa, issued today on their website. Does it make up for Muni's biting off of more than it can chew? Er, probably not, no. But coming from an agency that used to claim that all was well in the midst of a meltdown, it's at least nice to hear a few words of contrition. Although we don't like the sound of "we are striving to manage your expectations."

So read on, grumble a little less unhappily, and keep submitting complaints -- it's only by listening to your suggestions and doing your bidding that Muni can improve.

Dear Muni Customers—

On behalf of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), I would like to express our apologies for the frustrations you have experienced with Muni service over the last few days. We recognize that the quality of service Muni has provided is unacceptable.

As you are aware, we have recently made significant changes to our system. Unfortunately, the new service integration has not gone as smoothly as we would have liked. We also know that timely communication with all of you during this period has been a problem.

Please know that we are working night and day to mitigate our service problems and provide you with timely, safe and efficient service. We are also redoubling our efforts to ensure system and operator announcements are made when a delay occurs…we are striving to manage your expectations.

We genuinely appreciate your patience and thank you for riding Muni.

For more information about the SFMTA, visit www.sfmta.com.

Sincerely,
Nathaniel P. Ford, Sr.
Executive Director/CEO
SFMTA