San Mateo previews $267 million five-year CIP; staff warns of more than $350 million in unfunded needs

Public Works Director Matt Fabry and Parks and Recreation Director Joanne Magrini presented a preview of San Mateo’s five-year capital improvement program (CIP) to the City Council at a special meeting on Monday, April 20, 2025, outlining roughly $267 million in proposed projects for 2025–2030 and an additional unfunded project list that staff estimated at more than $350 million.

Fabry said about 57% of the proposed five-year total is tied to sewer-related work, primarily to finish the city’s Clean Water Program and follow-on maintenance. He told the council that for budget adoption the council typically acts only on year one of the five-year plan.

“As we get further into the five years, obviously, things get less certain, as we get further out in terms of what the projects will be, what the costs will be, and what the revenues are going to be,” Public Works Director Matt Fabry said.

Why it matters: The CIP preview lists major near-term projects already tied to funding and a long list of unfunded priorities — from facility condition work to shoreline and stormwater needs — that will influence budget planning and potential ballot or grant strategies to close gaps.

Funded and highlighted projects

- Total five…