[nerdsniper]

I've had Waymos in SF take very strange routes. It seemed to really strongly avoid ever using Market St, generally preferring a long right-angle route over the perfect hypotenuse. Sometimes this delayed me very considerably, doubling my ride time compared to the Google Maps estimated time.

That said, I've never felt unsafe or uncomfortable. But I have jumped out halfway through the ride and grabbed an eScooter instead.

[icyfox]

Market used to be closed to all cars (2021-2025); only taxis and busses were allowed but that changed recently:

https://www.sfmta.com/blog/creating-better-market-street-car... https://www.planetizen.com/news/2025/08/135849-sfs-market-st...

Wonder if that explains your observed preference. I'd bet Waymos will start utilizing the route again if it aligns with Google's mapping algo.

[dmitrygr]

Back when I had to drive/walk in SF, I would also go quite out of my way to avoid market or mission. Especially near 6th. Self-preservation and whatnot...