By: Arianna Alvarez, Staff Writer
In Millbrae, new mixed-use housing is now being built. According to the San Mateo Daily Journal, La Quinta and Millbrae Lucky’s are being renovated into affordable new mixed-use residences.
Some Millbrae residents have mentioned that they are worried about their safety. They believe that the temporary housing will be unsafe near residential areas and should be established near medical facilities and other amenities. Others are supporting the city’s decision and believe that the housing will be a great use for stabilizing those who are experiencing homelessness.
In San Mateo County, the bart station has caused the population of homeless people to increase. This is because, other than walking, this is the only means of transportation available and cheap to the homeless. Around Millbrae, some homeless people hangout in the downtown area where middle school and highschool students often hang out after school with friends.
A Mills student, who wishes to stay anonymous, has shared that she thinks more housing in Millbrae is a good decision. This is because there would possibly be more options for people looking to move out to Millbrae. The student believes that the Millbrae community will be affected by the new housing in a good way. “I think there will be less burglary and less crime happening. Maybe the more people who move out here could help out the community.” Since there was a lot of thievery going on and police calls were being made prior to Lucky’s permanent closure, she believes that there won’t be as many crimes or burglaries as there were when Lucky was open.
Another Mills student has shared her opinion about the new housing in Millbrae. She has said that she doesn’t think it’s really needed, because as of right now Millbrae is in a good housing situation. “The extra housing most likely will drive more people into the community, which will increase the population. The additional housing not only can cause Millbrae to be more crowded but it is also getting rid of our local grocery store Lucky and hotel La Quinta that many tourists stay at when they come visit.” There are a lot of mixed feelings on the newly planned mixed-use housing. Some think it will be unsafe near residential areas due to population growth of homeless people. Others believe the housing will be a great use for stabilizing those who are experiencing homelessness. At the end of the day, the new mixed-use housing will affect the Millbrae community both positively and negatively
