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School and Housing Updates Plus Lunar New Year Celebrations and Beer Festivals

School and Housing Updates Plus Lunar New Year Celebrations and Beer Festivals

How the school updates might impact you, plus other developments making progress in the area.

Greg Kemper
February 19, 2026

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have a lot of updates for you this week, including expansions to Gilead’s campus, more housing coming to the area, a decision on Nesbit, Sandpiper, and Charles Armstrong schools, plus lunar new year, beer festivals, and more!

Let’s dive in!

In this week’s edition:

City Updates: A decision on Nesbit and Sandpiper Middle Schools, and Charles Armstrong construction, plus an evaluation of the traffic patterns in San Carlos
Business Updates: A new, local Granola company, plus Gilead expansion, new apartments and new housing.
Events: Comedy events, beer fests, lunar new year, and more!

Decision Made about Belmont-Redwood Shores Middle Schools

Earlier this year, we shared that the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District was evaluating whether or not to close Nesbit and Sandpiper middle schools in their district. Last week, the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District decided not to close the school after community members voiced strong opposition.

District leaders had been weighing consolidation due to enrollment trends and budget considerations. Families and staff raised concerns about class sizes, student transitions, and neighborhood impacts, prompting the board to reconsider. For local parents, the decision offers stability (at least for now) though conversations about long-term enrollment and funding challenges are likely to continue. Read more here.

San Carlos Evaluating Traffic Patterns

Leaders in San Carlos are weighing in on proposed road changes along El Camino Real that could reconfigure lanes to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. The proposal aims to reduce collisions and calm traffic, but some residents and business owners are concerned about congestion and access. City officials are gathering input as discussions continue about how the regional corridor should evolve. Locals who regularly drive or bike along the route may want to follow the debate closely. Read more here.

Charles Armstrong School Moving Forward with Development

After years of planning, the Charles Armstrong School in Belmont has secured final city approval for a significant campus upgrade. The school, which specializes in educating students with dyslexia, will be able to move ahead with improvements designed to better serve its students. City leaders said the project balances educational needs with neighborhood considerations. For families connected to the school, the decision clears the way for long-anticipated enhancements to facilities. Read more here.

Badass Granola: Homemade Premium Granola

Badass Granola is a Peninsula-based, local granola business founded by local entrepreneur Ilana, crafting delicious granola using simple, clean ingredients and no refined sugars. What began as a home kitchen passion project has grown into a community-loved brand now stocked in local markets such as The Willows Market in Menlo Park and Rainbow Co-op in San Francisco. In addition to retail offerings, Badass Granola is available for custom orders, corporate events, and special occasions. The brand is actively seeking to expand into more local shops and grocery stores/markets throughout the Bay Area. Learn more here or find them on Instagram.

Click here to feature your business in front of over 10,000 local residents!

Gilead Sciences Campus Expansion Moving Forward

Biotech giant Gilead Sciences is moving forward with a major proposal to expand its campus in Foster City, earning support from the city’s Planning Commission. The project would significantly modernize and expand the company’s footprint, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the area. Supporters say the development will strengthen the local economy and help retain high-paying jobs, while also updating aging office and research space. As the proposal advances to the City Council, residents can expect continued discussion around traffic, infrastructure, and environmental impacts. Read more here.

Office Park Set to be Turned Into New Homes

A large office park in San Mateo is poised for a major transformation as plans move ahead to demolish the site and replace it with 256 new homes. The redevelopment of the 1650–1720 area of S. Amphlett Blvd reflects the continued shift from underused office space to much-needed housing across the Peninsula.

City leaders say the project could help address local housing shortages while revitalizing a dated commercial area. Developers say the shift reflects changes in post-pandemic work patterns and reduced demand for traditional office space. For residents, the move could mean more housing supply and potentially more mixed-use neighborhoods across the community. Read more here.

Apartment Complex Moving Forward

Last year, we shared that plans for a 128-unit apartment block had been submitted. Located at 3rd and Delaware, the proposed complex proposal includes a multi-unit residential building designed to increase density in the city’s core. Supporters point to the benefits of walkability and added foot traffic for local businesses, while some neighbors have raised questions about parking and building scale. If approved, the project would further reshape downtown living options in the coming years. Read more here.

Amazing Katsu in San Mateo

Craving crispy comfort? Amazing Katsu delivers seriously crunchy Japanese-Korean style katsu with premium proteins like juicy pork, tender chicken, shrimp, and even tofu, all expertly fried to golden perfection and served with classic sides like cabbage salad and miso soup. This takeout- and delivery-only spot is all about casual, crave-worthy comfort food with fun twists like cheese katsu that adds melty richness. Whether you’re swinging by after work or picking up dinner for the family, Amazing Katsu brings bold Asian-fusion flavor to your table any night of the week.

Gigi's Cafe in Burlingame

A beloved casual cafe in Burlingame known for its generously stacked sandwiches, hearty breakfast and brunch fare, and cheerful outdoor patio. Favorites like the turkey avocado smash, the indulgent Tech Bro sandwich with pastrami and bacon, and creative burritos keep regulars coming back, while vegan and vegetarian options ensure there’s something for everyone. Gigi’s has earned accolades for its sandwiches, big portions and friendly service, making it the perfect stop for a satisfying casual meal with a smile.

111 Anza Blvd, Burlingame

🧠 Trivia Night | San Mateo | Main Public Library | 2/20 | more
Gather your friends and put your knowledge to the test at this lively library trivia night—expect fun questions, friendly competition, and a great community vibe.

🌌 Starlight Nights | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 2/20 | more
Enjoy an after-hours museum experience featuring engaging exhibits, special activities, and a unique evening atmosphere perfect for families and curious minds.

😂 Don’t Tell Comedy | San Carlos | Don’t Tell Comedy | 2/20 | more
Experience a pop-up comedy show with a secret lineup and undisclosed location revealed the day of—an exciting twist for comedy fans looking for something different.

🧧 Lunar New Year | San Mateo | Hillsdale Shopping Center | 2/21 | more
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with festive performances, cultural traditions, and family-friendly activities at this vibrant community event.

📚 Lunar New Year Storytime and Craft | San Mateo | The Book Bubble in the Library | 2/21 | more
Families are invited to a special themed storytime followed by a hands-on craft—an engaging way for little ones to learn about and celebrate the holiday.

✨ Glow Dance | San Carlos | Youth Center | 2/27 | more
Light up the dance floor at this high-energy glow-themed party featuring music, neon fun, and plenty of space to show off your moves.

📖 Young Adult Novel Convention | Belmont | Belmont Library | 2/28 | more
YA book lovers can connect over their favorite titles, meet fellow readers, and celebrate all things young adult fiction at this special library event.

🍺 Craft Beer Fest and Competition | San Carlos | Out of the Barrel | 2/28 | more
Sample a wide variety of craft brews and watch local breweries compete in this spirited tasting event—perfect for beer enthusiasts looking to discover new favorites.

❄️ Frozen Sing Along | San Carlos | Mahany Hall | 2/28 | more
Sing your heart out to favorite songs in this family-friendly sing-along event that brings the beloved story to life on stage.

🎤 Stand Up Comedy Night | San Mateo | A2 Wine Bar | 2/28 | more
Pair great wine with big laughs at this intimate comedy night—an easygoing evening out with live stand-up performances in a cozy setting.

🎭 High School Musical | San Mateo | Performing Arts Center | March 6-8 | Click here to buy tickets
Tickets are on sale now for Borel Drama’s production of High School Musical! Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life onstage!