Redwood City Gets $5M Toward Constructing Ferry Terminal

REDWOOD CITY, CA — Several San Mateo County cities, including Redwood City, received funding for local projects through the state budget due to a surplus, according to Assembly Speaker pro Tem Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco).

Pacifica will receive $7.75 million for the Esplanade Infrastructure Preservation Project, Redwood City will receive $5 million for construction of the Redwood City Ferry Terminal and Millbrae will receive $2 million for reconstruction of the Millbrae Recreation Center that was destroyed in a 2016 fire.

All funding came as a result from requests by Mullin, except for a joint $500,000 request with Sen. Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) that will go toward repairing damage to the Pacifica Municipal Pier.

“This year’s exceptional budget surplus presented an opportunity for members to request funding for local projects, a first time in my Assembly tenure,” Mullin said in a news release. “I am pleased to announce I was able to secure critical infrastructure funding for the cities of Millbrae, Pacifica and Redwood City. While each of these city-specific projects provide a benefit to the local community receiving the funds, I believe there is a broader benefit to San Mateo County and our region as a whole.”

Redwood City’s $5 million would help realize its goal of building a $22 million ferry terminal, which has been planned for close to 20 years.

“Words can’t describe the excitement and gratitude I have over this infusion of funds to help bring ferry service to life in Redwood City,” Redwood City Mayor Diane Howard said. “I thank Assemblymember Mullin for his leadership and support on this critical transportation project.”

Water Emergency Transportation Authority Executive Director Seamus Murphy said that with congestion returning, expanding ferry service to Redwood City would provide residents with an alternative commute option to driving.

“The plans show it will work, but it cannot happen without investment, and Assemblymember Mullin’s inclusion of funding to advance this improvement is a game-changer for the thousands of San Mateo County residents looking forward to hopping aboard,” Murphy said.