A 41-year-old San Francisco restaurant owner, Eiad Eltawil, has embarked on a 30-day hunger strike to protest the new bike lane experiment outside his business. Eltawil’s family operates both a Syrian restaurant and an artworks store on Valencia Street in the city’s Mission District. The new two-way protected bike lane project, implemented by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, has not only reduced vehicle lanes but also eliminated 71 metered parking spots, leading to a decrease in clientele for local businesses.
During his hunger strike, Eltawil will be sleeping outside his business, consuming only water, and distributing flyers supporting his cause. He has expressed his grievances on the exterior of his temporary living space, calling attention to what he believes are unfair and detrimental policies affecting his business. Despite facing challenges and rejection from various departments, Eltawil hopes that his fasting will bring attention to the plight of local business owners impacted by the bike lane changes and potentially lead to a resolution that benefits everyone involved.
The controversy surrounding the new bike lane experiment has stirred mixed emotions among locals, with some supporting Eltawil’s protest against the bike lanes while others favoring the city’s initiative for safer bike routes. The SFMTA acknowledged the concerns raised by business owners and stated they are working on fine-tuning the design to address loading needs and ensure the safety of both businesses and bicyclists along the corridor. The outcome of Eltawil’s hunger strike and the ongoing discussions between stakeholders and city officials will determine the future of the bike lane project and its impact on local businesses.
