Many of the arguments against Measure T are based on misconceptions about how cities, regions, and the State of California are working together to combat the housing crisis. Here are seven reasons why voting Yes on Measure T is the right choice for the future of our community:
1. Affordable Housing Is a Priority
Under Measure Y, San Mateo has never hit its affordable housing goals. With sky-high costs, many of our essential workers—teachers, healthcare professionals, and service employees—can’t afford to live here. Measure T allows for the creation of more affordable housing options, keeping our workforce local and helping to retain the very people who keep San Mateo running.
2. Measured Growth, Not Overdevelopment
A key concern for some voters is the fear of overdevelopment. But it’s important to know that Measure T only adjusts zoning in targeted areas near transit corridors, allowing for smart growth that won’t disrupt the character of our existing neighborhoods. In fact, 75% of the city’s zoning remains unchanged from Measure Y, and an additional 15% of San Mateo consists of undevelopable areas like parks and streets. In reality, very little of San Mateo's land actually gets a zoning change from Measure Y's levels in Measure T.
3. A No on T Does Nothing to Reduce or Stop Traffic and Pollution in San Mateo
A No vote on Measure T does nothing to solve San Mateo’s growing traffic and pollution problems. Measure T focuses on building housing near transit, which will reduce car dependency, shorten commutes, and ease traffic congestion. Longitudinal studies show that people who live near transit reduce car trips by up to 44% every week. Encouraging transit-oriented development is a practical way to make San Mateo more environmentally sustainable and livable for everyone.
4. Maintaining Community Character
Measure T does not mean high-rise developments in the middle of our residential neighborhoods. It’s a balanced solution that keeps the character of single-family neighborhoods intact while still allowing for necessary growth in areas where it makes sense—near public transportation and existing infrastructure.
5. Economic Stability
When people can live where they work, they spend more in the local economy - with businesses in San Mateo. By voting Yes on Measure T, you are supporting San Mateo’s businesses and helping the community grow. More affordable housing means less commuting and more local dollars staying in our shops, restaurants, and small businesses.
6. Addressing the Housing Crisis
The housing crisis in San Mateo is not going away, and a No vote on Measure T only prolongs the issue. Measure Y has not delivered enough housing to meet demand. Measure T is designed to address the crisis with responsible planning - increasing affordable housing options while avoiding the pitfalls of unchecked growth.
7. A More Inclusive San Mateo
San Mateo is at its best when it is a community for everyone. Measure T promotes inclusivity by making it possible for people from all income levels to live here. It provides the housing options necessary for the future growth of San Mateo, ensuring that the city remains a place where everyone, regardless of income, can thrive.
A Yes vote on Measure T supports smart growth, affordable housing, and the future sustainability of San Mateo.
It’s time to move forward with solutions that balance the needs of our community, protect our environment, and create a city where everyone can live, work, and succeed. Vote Yes on Measure T.
Read Next: 10 Reasons to Vote Yes on Measure T
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