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- ❤️ The New Blue Zone Health Initiative to Increase Quality of Life in San Mateo
❤️ The New Blue Zone Health Initiative to Increase Quality of Life in San Mateo
Information on potential Caltrain station closures and plenty of events like shows, musicals, and food trucks!
Greg Kemper
April 09, 2026
Sponsored by
Good morning neighbors!
Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have information about the new Blue Zone in San Mateo, the CalTrain proposal that could result in the closure of up to a third of stations, plus big business returning to San Mateo.
Let’s dive in!
In this week’s edition:
City Updates: San Mateo to establish a Blue Zone to increase quality of life and Caltrain potentially closing stations
Business Updates: Big business returning to San Mateo and a San Carlos boutique celebrating 13 years
Events: Shows and musicals, a plant clinic, and food trucks
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Peninsula Health Care District launches Blue Zones health initiative
The Peninsula Health Care District is launching a “Blue Zones” initiative aimed at improving health and longevity in San Mateo County. Blue Zones programs are based on habits and community design strategies seen in places where people live longer, healthier lives.
The initiative may lead to new partnerships with schools, workplaces, and community groups to encourage healthier eating, movement, and social connection. For residents, it could mean more wellness-focused programs and community events designed to promote healthier lifestyles. Read more here.
San Mateo County Moves to Rezone for Housing
Facing a shortfall of nearly 1,000 homes compared with state housing goals, county planners are racing to rezone land in unincorporated areas like Colma, Broadmoor, Harbor Industrial, and the Midcoast. The rezoning effort aims to allow higher-density multifamily development by right, particularly near transit and neighborhood centers, to unlock more housing capacity before critical deadlines.
The process includes public hearings and environmental review ahead of possible zoning changes. These policy moves could shape growth and neighborhood character across the county while helping meet California’s housing targets. Read more here.
San Mateo County demands $157 million in CA vehicle license fee revenue
San Mateo County is demanding that the state release $157 million in vehicle license fee revenue that county officials say is owed to local governments. The dispute centers on funding distribution and could have major implications for local budgets if the county succeeds. Officials argue the money could support essential services such as road maintenance, public safety, and community programs. The outcome could affect how much funding is available for county services without requiring new taxes or cuts elsewhere. Read more here.
Caltrain to close stations if transit tax doesn’t pass
Caltrain officials are warning that up to a third of stations could close if a proposed transit tax measure does not pass, as the agency faces major funding challenges. Leaders say the system’s long-term operations depend on securing a reliable revenue source, especially as ridership recovery continues post-pandemic. If the measure fails, service reductions could affect commuters across the Peninsula who rely on Caltrain for work, school, and events. For local riders, the news raises concerns about fewer transportation options and increased traffic congestion. Read more here.
JoeyRae Boutique Celebrates 13 Years
677A Laurel St, San Carlos
San Carlos boutique JoeyRae is celebrating its 13th anniversary this March, marking over a decade in business curated by a family team of three sisters and their mother. The store offers a carefully selected range of women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts, with loyal local support and an active social presence sharing the milestone celebration. Read more here.
Click here to feature your business in front of over 10,000 local residents!
Xero ditches Denver for Bay Area comeback, brings U.S. HQ back to San Mateo
Software company Xero is moving its U.S. headquarters from Denver back to San Mateo, bringing a major corporate presence back to the Peninsula. The move could strengthen the city’s reputation as a tech hub and potentially increase local job opportunities. A headquarters relocation can also create ripple effects for nearby restaurants, office services, and the local economy. For residents, it’s another sign of continued business growth in the San Mateo area. Read more here.
The Meat Wagon in San Mateo
More than a restaurant itself, The Meat Wagon operates as a local butcher purveyor delivering high-quality, farm-raised meats across Bay Area neighborhoods. The focus is on premium beef, chicken, lamb, and pork that’s organic, halal, and never frozen, intended for home cooking and family meals. Shoppers can order cuts direct from their mobile “wagon” concept, emphasizing fresh ingredients for your own recipes. While not a dine-in restaurant, this service supports local food makers and traditions.
🥾 San Carlos Explorers: Stanford Dish | San Carlos | Stanford Dish | 4/9 | more
Join the San Carlos Explorers group for a scenic hike around Stanford Dish, a popular local loop with great views.
🎱 Bingo Night | San Mateo | Elks Lodge #1112 | 4/10 | more
Enjoy a classic bingo night at the San Mateo Elks Lodge, featuring multiple games and a fun social atmosphere.
🕺 Life on Laurel Silent Disco | San Carlos | Wheeler Parking Plaza | 4/10 | more
Dance the night away at this outdoor silent disco event, featuring music, headphones, and a lively downtown vibe.
🍡 Japan Sweets and Snacks | San Mateo | Osaka Marketplace | 4/10 -12| more
Browse a special selection of Japanese sweets and snacks available for a limited time at Osaka Marketplace through April 12.
🎭 Matilda Kid's Night Out | San Carlos | Children's Theatre | 4/10 | more
Kids can enjoy a fun evening out themed around Matilda, with activities and entertainment hosted by the local children’s theatre.
👶 Baby Clothing & Supplies Swap | Burlingame | Library | 4/11 | more
Swap gently used baby clothing and supplies with other local families at this community-friendly library event.
🎹 Musicale: A Recital | San Mateo | Main Library | 4/11 | more
Enjoy a live musical recital at the San Mateo Main Library featuring performances in a relaxed community setting.
🔬 Bay Area Pasifika STEAM Fest | San Mateo | Event Center | 4/11 | more
Celebrate Pasifika culture through hands-on STEAM activities, exhibits, and interactive learning experiences for all ages.
💍 Wedding Fair in the Park | Belmont | Twin Pines Manor | 4/12 | more
Meet wedding vendors and gather planning inspiration at this outdoor wedding fair hosted at Twin Pines Manor.
🌿 Master Gardener Plant Clinic | San Mateo | Arboretum Society | 4/12 | more
Get gardening advice and plant care tips from Master Gardeners during this helpful drop-in clinic event.
🎼 WORKSHOP: Music for the Youth Mind | San Carlos | Art Bias, Studio 114 | 4/12 | more
This youth-focused workshop explores how music can support mental wellness, creativity, and emotional development.
🚚 Off The Grid Food Trucks | Foster City | Leo J Ryan Park | 4/15 | more
Grab dinner from a rotating lineup of popular food trucks at this weekly outdoor gathering in Leo J Ryan Park.
🎭 The Music Man - Tickets Onsale | San Carlos | Bayside Performing Arts Center | 4/17 | more
Tickets are now on sale for The Music Man, presented by the Bay Area Educational Theater Company at Bayside Performing Arts Center.
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