a premier destination for visitors seeking luxury accommodations. ADDRESSING CHALLENGES HEAD-ON While Half Moon Bay’s location along the coast provides natural advantages, it also presents certain logistical challenges. The Coastside is somewhat isolated, with limited access to high-speed internet. Chidester acknowledges this challenge but notes that help is on the way. “California’s Middle Mile initiative is building 10,000 miles of high-speed fiber optic backbone throughout the state,” he explains. Thanks to the city’s advocacy, Half Moon Bay was selected as part of this initiative, which Chidester believes will be a “game changer for businesses” once completed. Alongside business growth, addressing the region’s housing shortage has been a top priority for Half Moon Bay’s leadership. Like much of California, the city has struggled with the high cost of living. Chidester emphasizes the importance of this issue, particularly for the Coastside’s farmworker community. “Housing throughout California is a challenge, and in the Bay Area with its super high cost of living, this has been a top priority for our community,” Chidester says.The city and county are preparing to launch two farmworker housing projects to provide affordable living options for these essential workers. In addition to farmworker housing, the city has made strides in developing affordable housing for seniors, a growing demographic in Half Moon Bay. STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY AND ECONOMY Looking ahead, Half Moon Bay’s leaders are focusing on initiatives that strengthen the connection between its residents and businesses while also Krystlyn Giedt Matthew Chidester 209 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11 HALF MOON BAY, CA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx