San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA – Mayor London N. Breed today announced the nomination of Mike Chen to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Board of Directors, replacing Lydia So who was recently appointed to the Planning Commission. Chen’s nomination requires approval from the Board of Supervisors.

Chen is an experienced data engineer with a background in marketing and product analytics. He joined the SFMTA Citizens' Advisory Council in January 2020 and served as its Chair from July 2021 through July 2023. A frequent rider of MUNI lines 1, 38, and 49, Chen also uses both his own e-bike and bikeshare for transportation within the city. He is an advocate for housing, transportation, and urbanist causes and has been active in his neighborhood as well as a volunteer lead for YIMBY Action, a housing advocacy organization.

"Mike brings a deep understanding of San Francisco's transit challenges and opportunities,” said Mayor London Breed. “With his commitment to safe, efficient, and sustainable transit, I have confidence that he will work with the SFMTA to continue to build a transit system that works for all San Franciscans.”

“I am honored to be appointed by Mayor London Breed to the Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors. Transportation is deeply linked to public health, quality of life, economic opportunity, and the future of our planet,” said Mike Chen. "I am grateful for the chance to contribute my energy and talents to the challenges and opportunities facing the SFMTA.”

Chen currently works as a data engineer at Coda, where he organizes information to help people make better decisions using data, tables, and dashboards. Prior to this role, he worked at Meta for nearly eight years primarily as a data engineer. He holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania.

“Tackling significant challenges facing our public transit system will require the best public servants – and Mike Chen is one of the best,” said Senator Scott Wiener. “We’re all lucky to have his thoughtfulness and dedication directed at keeping MUNI running and our streets in great shape for all users.”

“I am excited that Mayor Breed has nominated Mike Chen to the SFMTA Board,” said Planning Commissioner Lydia So. “Mike brings valuable experience as a member of the SFMTA Citizens' Advisory Council and as a frequent rider of Muni. I am delighted that the SFMTA Board will continue to have representation from the Chinese and AANHPI community.”

Chen resides in Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood in San Francisco where he regularly enjoys Clay Slow Street.

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