San Mateo is about to undergo a significant transformation with the redevelopment of the Hillsdale Shopping Center. This extensive project promises to reshape the 44.69-acre site, providing new housing, retail spaces, and offices, while also addressing the region's housing shortage. As local real estate experts, the Sternsmith Group is here to break down everything you need to know about the project, including its exciting benefits and community concerns.
Key Project Highlights 🏙️
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Retail and Office Spaces: The redevelopment will replace outdated commercial buildings with 2,059,000 square feet of new retail and office spaces, adding 568,669 net new square feet to the property.
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New Residential Units: 1,392 new residential units are planned, with 15% (209 units) set aside as Below Market Rate (BMR) to help alleviate the local housing shortage.
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Parking Expansion: The existing 3,399 parking stalls will be replaced with 5,390 new stalls, providing ample parking to support the increased activity on the site.
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Commercial and Residential Layout: The project will feature eight- to ten-story office buildings along El Camino Real, with residential units—including three-story townhomes and multi-story apartment buildings—located in the western and southern parts of the site.
The goal of this redesign is to create a mixed-use environment that brings together living, shopping, and working spaces in one cohesive area. 🏡✨
Sustainability and Connectivity 🌱🚶♂️
The project is designed with sustainability in mind, offering green spaces, pedestrian pathways, and bike-friendly infrastructure to enhance the community experience. A focus on connectivity will make the area more accessible for residents and visitors alike.
The Impact Fees 💰
In addition to transforming the area, the Hillsdale redevelopment will contribute to the local community through various impact fees:
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Commercial Linkage Fee
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Child Care Development Fee
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Park Impact Fee
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School Impact Fees
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Transportation Improvement Fee
These fees will help fund the improvements to public infrastructure, community services, and the local environment.
Community Perspectives: Pros and Cons 🗣️
As with any large-scale development, the Hillsdale project has sparked a range of reactions from the local community. Here’s an overview of some of the pros and cons that have been discussed:
✅ Pros: Anticipated Benefits
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Increased Housing Availability: The addition of 1,392 new residential units, including 209 Below Market Rate units, will help meet the growing demand for housing in the region.
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Economic Growth: The creation of new retail and office spaces is expected to boost the local economy, attract new businesses, and provide job opportunities.
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Improved Amenities: Residents can look forward to enhanced amenities, including new shops, restaurants, and recreational spaces, creating a vibrant, mixed-use community.
❌ Cons: Community Concerns
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Traffic and Congestion: Some residents worry that the increased density and development along El Camino Real could lead to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
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Gentrification and Displacement: There's concern that the introduction of market-rate housing might drive up costs in the area, potentially displacing long-time residents.
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Loss of Retail Space: Some locals are apprehensive that the transformation of the mall into mixed-use spaces may reduce retail options and negatively impact small businesses.
Get Involved: Share Your Thoughts
A neighborhood meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM. This online meeting will provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the project, ask questions, and voice concerns directly to city planners.
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Online Meeting Link: Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 841 5045 5560
Passcode: 242966 -
Dial-in by Phone: (669) 900-6833
Meeting ID: 841 5045 5560
Passcode: 242966
Developer & Contact Information 📞
Applicant Information:
Andrew Turco
Phone: (650) 377-5808
Email: [email protected]
City Contact Information:
Elaine Ling, Principal Planner
Phone: (650) 522-7216
Email: [email protected]
As local residents, we at the Sternsmith Group are excited to see how the Hillsdale Shopping Center redevelopment will shape the future of our community. We have been the #1 agents in Bay Meadows, a neighboring community for the past 8 years. We have felt the positive impact a new community can bring to San Mateo. Do you think Hillsdale will do the same? Whether you're looking for a new home, investment opportunities, or just want to stay informed, we’re here to help you navigate these changes. Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to reach out to us for any real estate advice in the area.
