🌷Spring Events, Housing Developments, and Rebates for Going Electric

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have updates on the new housing developments, fire prevention, and rebates to help you go electric, plus plenty of events to get you enjoying the first taste of spring!

Let’s dive in!

San Carlos Launches Leaf Blower Rebate Program

San Carlos is piloting a rebate program to help residents and businesses transition from gas-powered leaf blowers to quieter, cleaner electric alternatives. The initiative offers financial incentives to offset the cost of purchasing battery-powered equipment, supporting the city’s broader sustainability goals. Gas leaf blowers are a known source of noise complaints and air pollution, so the program aims to improve neighborhood quality of life while reducing emissions. For homeowners and landscaping companies, this is an opportunity to save money while making an environmentally friendly switch. Read more here.

San Mateo Approves Two Major Downtown Housing Projects

San Mateo has approved two significant apartment developments near its downtown core, continuing a steady push to add housing close to transit, shops and restaurants. One project, often referred to as the Gateway development, will bring hundreds of new residential units to a site near Highway 101, while another newly approved complex will further increase downtown density. City leaders say the projects will help address regional housing shortages and support local businesses with more foot traffic. For residents, this means more neighbors in the downtown area, along with ongoing conversations about traffic, parking and growth. Read more here and here.

Fire Fuel Reduction Efforts at Twin Pines Park

Twin Pines Park in Belmont recently saw major fuel reduction work as part of ongoing wildfire prevention efforts. Following creek restoration work that removed invasive eucalyptus trees, Cal Fire crews cleared ladder fuels, lower branches and dead wood along the park’s southwestern hillside. These efforts significantly reduce the likelihood and intensity of wildfire while opening up new forested areas for visitors to explore. Parks staff oversaw the multi-day project, helping keep this beloved community space safer year-round. Read more here.

🎭 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!

🧘 Yoga Pilates and Planes | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 3/7 | more
Flow through a rejuvenating workout surrounded by historic aircraft in this unique wellness experience that blends movement with aviation history.

💍 Wedding First Dance Workshop | San Mateo | 217 S Claremont St | 3/7 | more
Couples can learn the basics of a memorable first dance, building confidence and smooth moves for the big day.

🌸 Celebrating Spring Weekend | Woodside | Filoli | 3/7 | more
Welcome the season with blooming gardens, fresh air, and special spring-themed activities at this picturesque estate.

🎬 Obscure Movie Club: Being There | Belmont | 3/7 | more
Film fans can gather to watch and discuss Being There as part of this movie club series highlighting lesser-known cinematic gems.

🍣 Standup and Sushi | Burlingame | Barracuda Sushi | 3/7 | more
Enjoy fresh sushi alongside live stand-up comedy for a night that pairs big laughs with delicious bites.

🌹 Rose Garden Volunteers Day | San Mateo | Central Park | 3/7 | more
Lend a hand in maintaining the beautiful rose garden—an opportunity to give back, meet neighbors, and enjoy time outdoors.

🚓 Public Safety Fair | San Carlos | 616 Laurel Street | 3/8 | more
Meet local first responders, explore emergency vehicles, and learn helpful safety tips at this interactive community event.

👑 Royal Ball | Burlingame | Burlingame Community Center | 3/13 | more
Dress in your royal best for a magical evening of dancing, music, and enchanting fun fit for the whole family.

🎱 Bingo Night | San Mateo | Elks Lodge #1112 | 3/13 | more
Try your luck at this lively bingo night featuring multiple games, prizes, and a spirited lodge atmosphere.

🌱 Spring Plant Exchange | Burlingame | Library | 3/14 | more
Swap seedlings and gardening tips with fellow plant lovers at this seasonal exchange designed to refresh your spring garden.

🧚 Fairy Garden Workshop | San Mateo | Kohl Pumphouse | 3/14 | more
Create a whimsical miniature fairy garden in this hands-on workshop perfect for sparking creativity.

👶 Preschool and Childcare Fair | Belmont | Twin Pines Senior & Community Center | 3/14 | more
Families can explore local preschool and childcare options, meet providers, and gather helpful information all in one place.

🎶 Ukulele Jam | San Mateo | B Street | 3/14 | more
Bring your ukulele (or just your love of music) for an upbeat community jam session celebrating easygoing island vibes.

🍀 St. Patrick’s Celebration | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 3/15 | more
Celebrate with festive activities, themed fun, and family-friendly entertainment at this lively St. Patrick’s Day event.

🎨 Paint-A-Plane | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 3/15 | more
Add your artistic flair to a real aircraft in this creative, hands-on aviation experience.

🥃 Irish Whiskey Tasting: Sunday Funday | San Mateo | Fogbird | 3/15 | more
Sample a curated selection of Irish whiskeys and learn about their unique flavor profiles in this spirited St. Patrick’s weekend tasting event.

🏃 Airport Runway Run (2K/5K/10K) | Hiller Aviation Museum | San Carlos | 4/12 | More
Run, walk, or stroll on the actual San Carlos Airport runway in this unique family-friendly race—and register early, because it sells out every year.