San Francisco's leadership landscape undertakes a dynamic shift as Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie appoints Alicia John-Baptiste, current President and CEO of the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association (SPUR), to the pivotal role of Chief of Infrastructure, Climate, and Mobility. This strategic move is a key part of Lurie's broader initiative to reorganize the mayor's office and foster improved efficacy and responsibility. John-Baptiste's new responsibilities will be coordinating between several city departments, including the Environment Department, the SF Municipal Transportation Agency, the Port of San Francisco, the Public Utilities Commission, Public Works, and Recreation & Parks.
As per Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie's mayoral campaign, John-Baptiste expressed her anticipation at returning to government service at such a decisive moment for San Francisco, "How the City plans for and delivers on its major infrastructure, climate, and mobility goals will shape our vitality for years to come." With over 25 years in the public policy sector, John-Baptiste's appointment is hailed as a move that will steer the city towards a more connected and resilient future.
A long-time advocate for transparent governance, Lurie praised John-Baptiste's impending contributions, affirming, "Alicia brings extensive expertise in shaping bold, transformative policies, and whose leadership will enhance communication and transparency as we pursue a more sustainable, connected, and resilient San Francisco," as reported by The SF Standard. This new role presents John-Baptiste with the challenge of navigating San Francisco's pressing mobility and environmental concerns, particularly in the wake of recent scrutiny faced by the SFMTA.
Tomiquia Moss, Secretary of the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, commended John-Baptiste's expertise, saying to Lurie's campaign statement, "She has the deep knowledge and expertise to help this Administration achieve its audacious goals.” Reflecting on her track record, her breadth of experience from SPUR, various city roles, and academic accolades from Harvard Kennedy School and Duke University equip her with the insights necessary to propel San Francisco's infrastructure and environmental objectives.
