The face of suburban downtowns is rapidly changing as more communities embrace the integration of residential living, particularly through the development of condos and apartments. This shift is transforming these once sleepy, commercial-heavy areas into vibrant hubs that offer a variety of benefits for residents, local businesses, and municipalities alike. San Mateo now has the opportunity to invest in a similar transformation for our downtown with Measure T on your ballot this November. Measure T is a sensible plan to evolve San Mateo's surburban downtown into a residential hub while supporting local businesses.
San Mateo certainly isn't the first in San Mateo County to undergo such a transformation. San Carlos - known as the "City of Good Living" - has long been admired for its small-town charm, but recent efforts to modernize its downtown have added a new layer of vibrancy. By strategically encouraging mixed-use developments that incorporate residential units, the city has managed to attract new residents while preserving its core identity.
One of the most significant projects in recent years is Wheeler Plaza, a mixed-use development that introduced residential apartments, retail space, and public parking to the heart of downtown San Carlos. This project replaced an underutilized parking lot and revitalized the area with modern housing options. The addition of over 100 residential units has drawn more people to live, shop, and dine in the city’s downtown, making it an active hub throughout the week, not just on weekends. The inclusion of new public spaces within Wheeler Plaza has further strengthened the sense of community in the area, encouraging more social interaction and walkability.
So what are the benefits of suburbs between San Francisco and San Jose investing in evolving their suburban downtowns? Here’s a closer look at the positive impacts:
1. Revitalization of the local economy in downtown San Mateo with Measure T
One of the most immediate benefits of integrating condos and apartments into suburban downtowns is the revitalization of local economies. When more people live in proximity to businesses, they are more likely to shop, dine, and seek services within their community. Downtown San Mateo has over 100 restaurants and dozens of shops. We have the opportunity to increase foot traffic, bolster small businesses, and attract new entrepreneurs who see opportunity in a growing customer base.
More broadly, suburban downtowns with thriving residential populations often see a surge in coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and other retail outlets. These new businesses not only create jobs but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the area. As residents spend locally, they help stimulate an economic cycle that can foster prosperity.
2. Reduction in Car Dependency and Traffic Congestion
Another significant advantage of suburban downtowns with more residential options is a reduction in car dependency. Traditionally, suburban communities were designed with cars in mind, leading to traffic congestion and long commutes for residents who lived far from commercial centers. With condos and apartments integrated into downtown areas, more people can walk or bike to work, stores, and recreational activities.
This shift not only improves traffic flow but also reduces the environmental impact associated with car use. Fewer cars on the road mean less air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and a decrease in the strain on local infrastructure, including road maintenance and parking requirements.
3. Enhanced Sense of Community
Living in close proximity to others naturally fosters a greater sense of community. When residents live in condos or apartments in suburban downtowns, they are more likely to interact with their neighbors, attend local events, and engage in civic activities. This creates a strong social fabric that helps build a more connected, inclusive, and resilient community.
Bay Meadows is an excellent example of this. It's not unusual to see pick up pot lucks amongst new neighbors, people congregating at the community garden, or kids running around playing while parents and neighbors stand nearby in conversation. Proximity creates the opportunity for connection that is much harder to have when you have tall fences and closed off yards. Sure, it's not for everyone, and that's why San Mateo has a diversity of neighborhoods and types of housing to suit all of those different preferences.
Downtown living also offers the opportunity for more public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and shared recreational areas. These spaces encourage spontaneous interactions, social gatherings, and a sense of belonging that is often missing in more spread-out suburban neighborhoods.
4. Support for Public Infrastructure and Services
The increased population density that comes with adding condos and apartments to suburban downtowns also supports the development of better public infrastructure and services. Higher concentrations of residents justify investments in public transportation, improved roads, and enhanced amenities like libraries, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Additionally, the tax revenue generated by both the residential properties and the boosted local economy can be funneled back into community projects that improve the overall quality of life for everyone, from updated sidewalks to greener, more sustainable public spaces.
5. Environmental Sustainability
Urban-style living in suburban areas supports sustainability goals. Building vertically rather than expanding horizontally helps preserve open spaces and natural landscapes that would otherwise be consumed by sprawling single-family home developments. Multi-family dwellings are also more energy-efficient, as they require fewer resources per resident than larger, detached homes.
Furthermore, with more people walking, cycling, or using public transit, suburban downtowns that integrate condos and apartments contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint of the community.
Conclusion
The transformation of suburban downtowns to include more condos and apartments brings numerous benefits, from revitalized economies and reduced traffic congestion to stronger communities and more sustainable living options. As more people seek the convenience and connectedness of urban living with the benefits of suburban life, this trend is likely to continue, creating dynamic and thriving suburban areas where residents can live, work, and play all in one place. This evolution offers a promising vision for the future of suburban living, and is a promising vision for San Mateo's downtown businesses.
Join Team Measure T! Sign up to volunteer, donate, endorse, and request a lawn sign today.
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