South San Francisco

South San Francisco is a city located in San Mateo County, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is often colloquially referred to as "South City" by its residents. The city is notable for its biotech industry, earning the nickname "Biotech Capital of the World."

History

South San Francisco was incorporated on September 19, 1908. It was originally part of the Rancho Buri Buri, a large land grant to the Sanchez family by the Spanish government. The city grew rapidly during the 20th century, partly due to its proximity to San Francisco and the expansion of the shipbuilding and steel industries. The establishment of the Genentech headquarters in 1976 marked the beginning of South San Francisco's transformation into a center for the biotechnology industry.

Geography

South San Francisco is located at 37.654656, -122.407750. The city is bordered by San Bruno to the north, Brisbane to the east, Pacifica to the west, and San Francisco Bay to the south. It encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including urban areas, industrial zones, and the undeveloped hillsides of Sign Hill, which is famous for the "South San Francisco The Industrial City" sign.

Economy

The economy of South San Francisco is heavily influenced by the biotechnology sector, with numerous companies, including Genentech, having their headquarters or significant operations in the city. This has led to the development of the East of 101 area as a major biotech cluster. Additionally, the city is home to a variety of other industries, including light manufacturing and food processing.

Demographics

As of the latest census, South San Francisco has a diverse population, reflecting the overall multicultural makeup of the San Francisco Bay Area. The city has seen significant growth over the years, driven by its economic opportunities and its location within the larger Bay Area.

Culture and Recreation

South San Francisco offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The city maintains numerous parks, including Orange Memorial Park and Sign Hill Park, which provide outdoor spaces for residents and visitors. The South San Francisco Public Library serves as an important community resource, offering educational and cultural programming.

Transportation

The city is served by several major highways, including U.S. Route 101 and Interstate 280, facilitating easy access to San Francisco and the rest of the Bay Area. Public transportation options include the Caltrain commuter rail, which has a station in South San Francisco, and various SamTrans bus lines. The proximity to San Francisco International Airport also provides connections to national and international destinations.

Education

South San Francisco is served by the South San Francisco Unified School District, which includes a number of elementary, middle, and high schools. The city also has private schools and is close to higher education institutions in the Bay Area, offering residents a range of educational opportunities.

Government

The city of South San Francisco operates under a council-manager form of government. The City Council consists of five members, including the mayor, who is elected by the council members from among themselves. The council sets policy, while the city manager is responsible for day-to-day operations.