Tech billionaires hire Democratic dealmakers in push to build a Bay Area city
3 hours ago
- #urban-development
- #california-politics
- #environmental-policy
- Tech billionaires are lobbying California state leaders to fast-track a new city project in Solano County after years of local opposition.
- They seek to expedite environmental reviews, limit legal challenges to 270 days, and potentially annex land into Suisun City, bypassing county voter approval.
- The project, now pitched as the Suisun Expansion Plan and Solano Shipyard, aims to attract manufacturers like defense company Saronic, promising jobs and economic growth.
- Proponents argue swift approval is needed to compete with Texas, but opponents criticize secrecy, outdated environmental reports, and risks to farmland and ecosystems.
- California Forever has spent heavily on lobbying, hired influential former legislators, and secured union support, yet faces skepticism from local residents and some lawmakers.