Editor,
The recent article on Stanford University’s expansion in Redwood City highlights an impressive vision — and no one doubts the quality of care Stanford provides. But the bigger issue is what this kind of growth means for the city around it.
Stanford’s model is increasingly self-contained. With on-site services, dining and connected buildings, more of the daily activity stays inside the campus. That may be convenient, but it means less support for local small businesses that rely on that foot traffic.
At the same time, expansion brings more workers and visitors into an area where housing is already out of reach for many. More demand without more housing just makes that problem worse, especially for middle-income families.
There’s also the reality that much of Stanford’s property is tax-exempt. Under Proposition 13, that limits how much revenue the city receives, even as it takes on added costs like traffic, infrastructure and public safety.
Stanford is a major asset to the region, but growth like this shouldn’t come without balance. If the project moves forward, it should include real commitments to the surrounding community — support for local businesses, housing solutions and a fair share of the costs that come with expansion.
Redwood City shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone.
Victor Torreano
Redwood City
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