Photo: ED JONES / AFP / Getty Images
In a bold move that echoes the rising trend of private initiatives in urban development, a coalition of prominent tech and finance billionaires is set to embark on an ambitious project named "California Forever." The venture aims to establish a brand new city in northern California, specifically in Solano County, covering an expansive 60,000-acre area northeast of San Francisco.
The envisioned city, expected to house approximately 400,000 residents, is designed with a focus on creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. The developers aim to offer a mix of living spaces, emphasizing apartments and townhomes while intentionally avoiding the construction of large single-family homes. This unique approach aligns with the evolving preferences and urban development philosophies seen in contemporary city planning.
The project's backers, whose ranks include influential figures such as LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, Netscape co-founder Marc Andreessen, and Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple's late CEO Steve Jobs, are not merely looking to create another urban landscape. Instead, they envision "California Forever" as a forward-thinking city that integrates modern principles of sustainability, community engagement, and innovation.
The proposal is expected to go through the democratic process, with California Forever seeking inclusion in a ballot initiative slated for the November election. This endeavor marks a significant step in the realm of private urban development, where influential figures leverage their resources and vision to contribute to shaping the future of city living. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly draw attention for its potential to influence the trajectory of urban planning in northern California.