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Hospital Upgrades, Flooding Mitigation, and Groovy Coffee

Hospital Upgrades, Flooding Mitigation, and Groovy Coffee

Check out the last of our holiday events, and learn more about the San Mateo hospital upgrades and Burlingame flooding mitigation.

Greg Kemper
December 18, 2025

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have exciting updates for you this week, including development and public works updates in Burlingame, a $217 million hospital upgrade in San Mateo, and the last of our holiday events.

Let’s dive in!

In this week’s edition:

🏥 San Mateo’s Hospital Upgrade: What the $217 million means for patients

🚧Construction Updates: Gilead’s expansion and Burlingame’s development to reduce flooding

🎄 Holiday Events: The last of our holiday events to enjoy the festive spirit! !

🏥 San Mateo County completes major public hospital rebuild

San Mateo County has completed a $217 million rebuild of its public hospital facilities. The project modernized patient rooms, emergency services, and clinical areas. County leaders say the upgrades will improve care quality and increase capacity. The rebuilt hospital is designed to better serve vulnerable populations. Officials marked the milestone as a major investment in community health. Residents can expect expanded services moving forward. Read more here.

🦺 Burlingame’s “Big Dig” begins major infrastructure upgrades

Burlingame has launched a large-scale infrastructure project known locally as the “Big Dig.” The work focuses on replacing aging underground pipes and improving storm drainage systems. City officials say the upgrades will reduce flooding risks and improve reliability for residents and businesses. Construction will bring temporary traffic changes and street disruptions. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and follow posted detours. The city says the long-term improvements will be well worth the short-term inconvenience. Read more here.

Photo: San Mateo Daily Journal

🏢 Burlingame public works director set to retire

Burlingame’s longtime public works director is retiring after years of service to the city. During his tenure, the department oversaw major projects involving roads, utilities, and public facilities. Colleagues credit him with steady leadership and a collaborative approach. City officials are now preparing to begin a search for his replacement. The transition comes at a time of major infrastructure investment citywide. Residents can expect continuity as the department moves forward. Read more here.

Gilead Sciences Starts Expansion Project in Foster City

Gilead Sciences plans to start construction and demolition by the end of the month on part of their current campus as part of their expansion project on its Foster City campus. The project will add up to 800,000 square feet of new lab and office space to support scientific innovation. Company leaders say the expansion reflects a long-term commitment to the region. Construction is expected to bring new jobs and increased activity to the area. Foster City officials welcomed the investment. Read more here.

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Groovy Goose in San Carlos

Groovy Goose has become a familiar spot in the neighborhood for coffee lovers and casual meetups alike. They offer a range of espresso drinks and loose-leaf teas alongside pastries and small bites from local bakeries. The café has a warm, inviting vibe that works for both a quick stop or settling in for a few hours with a book or laptop.

1221 San Carlos Ave A, San Carlos

Locals often mention that it stands out from the bigger chains, offering a little personality in every cup. It’s the kind of place that fits naturally into the rhythm of the community, where people come for drinks, conversation, or just a little pause in the day.

Burlingame’s Twelvemonth

330 Lorton Ave, Burlingame

Twelvemonth in Burlingame feels like a spot that’s grown naturally into the neighborhood, taking over the space of a former local brewery. With a creative and unique plant-based menu, they offer seasonal dishes that often highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Beyond the dining room, there’s a lounge area for casual drinks and a pastry counter where you can pick up baked goods throughout the day. It’s the kind of place where you can stop in for breakfast, linger over lunch, or meet friends for a cozy evening. The combination of contemporary food and comfortable space makes it feel like a relaxed extension of the community.