3 Cities Get Large Funds For Local Projects In San Mateo County

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — Several San Mateo County cities 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.”

Local officials expressed gratitude for the funds.

In Pacifica, the Esplanade Infrastructure Preservation Projects would provide infrastructure to help mitigate erosion of the beach by installing a protection structure.

"These projects are critical to ensure the protection of Esplanade Avenue from further bluff erosion, and risk to critical infrastructure — roadway, water, sewer and other utilities — that serve the naturally affordable housing in the Manor area of Pacifica,” said Mayor Sue Beckmeyer.

Beckmeyer also called the Pacifica Pier a “significant regional recreational asset” that hosts visitors from all over the Bay Area, and that the funding would help repair a portion of the pier that was significantly damaged by last winter’s storms.

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.

Millbrae will be able to rebuild its recreation center, with plans for a 24,500-square feet state-of-the-art building that includes a youth center with game and study rooms, a preschool, community room, art room, fitness studio and conference center.

“We are grateful beyond words,” Millbrae Mayor Ann Schneider said. “This funding will ensure delivery of the new center for our seniors, youth and residents of not only Millbrae but also the region.”