As I complete my first full year as Mayor of Fremont, I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and even more energized by where we are headed.
Fremont is a city that expects results. Residents don’t want ideology or gridlock; they want leadership that shows up, listens and delivers. From day one, my focus as Mayor has been simple: unite our community, keep Fremont safe, strengthen our economy and improve quality of life for every resident.
Getting Things Done—Together
Fremont works best when we focus on common ground. Over the past year, I’ve worked to build consensus, move projects forward and ensure City Hall remains responsive and accountable. That approach has paid off.
We advanced critical infrastructure projects, improved coordination with regional partners, and kept Fremont moving forward at a time when many cities across California are struggling with delays, budget pressures and uncertainty.
A Strong and Resilient Economy
Fremont continues to solidify its position as one of the Bay Area’s most important economic engines. Despite broader economic headwinds, Fremont’s commercial real estate market posted one of its strongest years on record. We led Silicon Valley in industrial leasing, attracted new institutional investment, and reinforced our role as the region’s premier hub for advanced manufacturing and clean technology.
Our Innovation District in Warm Springs—home to companies like Tesla, Lam Research, Seagate and Western Digital—continues to grow, bringing high-quality jobs and long-term economic stability. This is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate, business-friendly leadership that values job creation, smart growth and public-private partnerships.
Economic strength matters because it allows us to invest in what residents care about most: public safety, housing and community services.
Delivering Real Housing—With Results
Housing affordability remains one of Fremont’s most pressing challenges, and progress requires more than promises. It requires delivery.
This past year alone, Fremont completed five affordable housing projects totaling 567 new homes, providing stability for seniors, families and working residents. At the same time, we have more than 800 additional affordable housing units currently in pre-development, ensuring a strong pipeline for the years ahead.
Our approach is straightforward: build housing near transit, partner with responsible developers, reduce unnecessary barriers and focus on outcomes. Affordable housing doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when cities lead with clarity, collaboration and urgency.
Public Safety as a Top Priority
Public safety is not optional. Over the past year, we prioritized full funding for our Police and Fire Departments, supported officer recruitment and retention, and strengthened collaboration with first responders.
Our police officers and firefighters show up for Fremont every day. My job is to ensure they have the resources, support and leadership they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. Fremont will continue to be a city where families feel secure and businesses can thrive.
Addressing Homelessness with Compassion and Accountability
Homelessness demands practical, data-driven solutions. We focused on expanding shelter options, supporting mental health and addiction treatment, and insisting on accountability for publicly funded programs.
We must treat unhoused individuals with dignity while also maintaining clean, safe neighborhoods. Compassion and accountability are not competing values—they go hand in hand.
Investing in Quality of Life
From parks and community spaces to senior services, youth programs and neighborhood improvements, Fremont continues to invest in the things that make a city feel like home.
We advanced projects to reduce cut-through traffic, improve transportation infrastructure, expand connectivity, and enhance public spaces.
Looking Ahead
Fremont’s future is bright, but success is never guaranteed. It requires leadership that is steady, inclusive and focused on outcomes—not headlines.
As Mayor, I will continue to represent all Fremont residents—Democrats, Republicans, independents, business owners, workers, seniors, families and young people. My commitment is to common-sense leadership that puts Fremont first.
I am grateful for the trust residents have placed in me and for the dedicated city staff, first responders, community leaders and volunteers who make our progress possible.
One year in, Fremont is delivering—and the best is still ahead.
Raj Salwan is the Mayor of Fremont. A near lifelong Fremont resident, he has served the city in multiple leadership roles over nearly two decades and is focused on uniting the community, strengthening public safety, expanding affordable housing and building a strong local economy.
