Joshua D. Picazo

Berkeley, San Francisco

Reporter at EdSource

Reporter at The Almanac

Reporter at El Tecolote

Articles

San Carlos, North Fair Oaks see affordable housing progress

4 weeks ago | almanacnews.com | Joshua D. Picazo

San Mateo County is making significant progress in expanding affordable housing. Two significant developments have advanced in the past month: One project in San Carlos broke ground, and another in North Fair Oaks is heading toward financing approval. On April 25, last month, San Carlos officials and community leaders gathered downtown to celebrate the long-awaited groundbreaking of Cherry Street Commons, a 33-unit, 100% affordable housing project for families.
Port of Redwood City likely spared from new tariffs

1 month ago | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

While major ports across California brace for economic turbulence from the Trump administration’s latest tariff hikes, the Port of Redwood City is expected to dodge the blow. Port officials say the impact of the new tariffs will be minimal, if felt at all, thanks to the nature of the cargo they handle.
Redwood City Fire hosts Guatemalan delegation

1 month ago | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

The Redwood City Fire Department is hosting senior leaders from Guatemala’s largest fire service for a weeklong exchange centered on firefighter training, cultural connection and the donation of emergency equipment. “It’s a powerful story that spans three countries, nearly two decades of partnership, and a shared commitment to service,” said Mike Elhihi, a Redwood City firefighter.
New Montessori school brings early education to San Carlos

1 month ago | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

A new Learn And Play Montessori school officially opened its doors in San Carlos this Wednesday, expanding early education options for local families. The new campus, located on Laurel Street, is the latest addition to the school’s growing network of Bay Area locations and is the second in San Mateo County. The school offers preschool, kindergarten, and after-school care programs for children ages 2 to 6.
Redwood City residents voice concerns over cell towers

1 month ago | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

Several residents have voiced concerns over proposed wireless facilities whose applications have been approved or are currently under review. Roni Ben-David, a resident who has been in contact with city officials about the issue, said the city’s utilities subcommittee heard from several residents during a March meeting. However, she said the response did not adequately address their concerns.
Redwood City joins county HOME Consortium following board approval

1 month ago | almanacnews.com | Joshua D. Picazo

Redwood City has officially joined the San Mateo County HOME Consortium, following a resolution passed by the County Board of Supervisors, via consent agenda, during an April 22 meeting. The decision amends the existing Cooperation Agreement to include Redwood City as a member, adjusts the program year, and makes several additional administrative updates in compliance with federal requirements.
From Burlingame to Broadway

Mar 8, 2025 | smdailyjournal.com | Joshua D. Picazo

As the Bobby Darin musical "Just in Time" hits New York City this spring, Broadway will soon get a taste of Bay Area flavor. Leading the charge is Burlingame-based real estate broker Joey Oliva. Before joining his family firm, OMarshall Inc., Oliva spent a decade in New York City’s theater industry. Now, alongside local arts leaders, he is stepping into Broadway production as a co-producer of “Just in Time,” a new musical celebrating Bobby Darin’s life and music.
Redwood City moves to curb displacement as homelessness rises

Feb 3, 2025 | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

The Redwood City Council unanimously approved updates to its anti-displacement strategy at its Jan. 27 meeting, aiming to protect tenants and preserve affordable housing. “In 2022, the City Council approved the comprehensive ADS policy, which addresses protection and preservation [to protect tenants],” Assistant City Manager Patrick Hesinger said. Since then, housing issues have become more pressing as homelessness and displacement have increased.
Once ‘Deadwood City,’ Redwood City inches closer to a new ferry hub

Jan 31, 2025 | rwcpulse.com | Joshua D. Picazo

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) has added the Redwood City Ferry Terminal and Service Project to Plan Bay Area 2050+, moving it closer to securing federal funding and becoming a reality. The project, which has been in development since a 2021 feasibility study, would establish a ferry route connecting Redwood City to Oakland, San Francisco, and other ports.
How is Laurel Street closure doing in San Carlos?

Jan 31, 2025 | smdailyjournal.com | Joshua D. Picazo

The permanent closure to cars of the 700 block of Laurel Street in San Carlos was lauded for its pedestrian-friendly design but has sparked mixed reactions from business owners and residents who lament declining business and parking challenges. Launched in June 2020 during COVID-19 restrictions, the move to close a section of Laurel Street to car traffic was praised for helping restaurants with outdoor dining. The city experimented with different closures before making the change permanent.