River Islands is Driving the Economy in Lathrop, CA

Courtesy of River Islands Development

Since 2012, River Islands has brought transformative development to California’s San Joaquin River Delta. It has played a vital role in the growth of the City of Lathrop, CA, which has seen its population more than double since 2010 and has been named the fastest-growing city in the state and fifth fastest-growing in the nation.

“We’ve been strategic in thinking about how fast a community can evolve,” says Susan Dell’Osso, president of River Islands Development. “How fast can it meet the needs of a growing economy?” Beyond the vibrant and livable planned community of 15,000 homes, Dell’Osso says success comes from a deliberate focus on business development.

Courtesy of River Islands Development

Incentives Attract Business Development

“Our economic development incentive collects $5,000 per home built and puts it into escrow,” Dell’Osso says. “That equates to up to $75 million reserved for economic subsidies for potential job-creating employers to locate here.” Smoothing the way even more for businesses, the Lathrop Irrigation District, not Pacific Gas and Electric, provides retail electric service for River Islands. “LID was created for our development and has an elected board of directors made up of local residents,” Dell’Osso says. “It has the ability to negotiate for business rates and is very responsive to new companies. Effectively, there is no red tape.”

River Islands’ close and collaborative partnership with the City of Lathrop enhances the business-friendly environment, providing shovel-ready sites and a streamlined approval process for all commercial applications. Tesla, UPS and other major employers have found a home in this diverse community, bringing a robust mix of white-collar, blue-collar and service jobs to the area.

Courtesy of River Islands Development

Perfect Location in San Joaquin County

Situated at the hub of three major freeways – Interstates 5 and 205 and Highway 120 – River Islands is about one hour from San Francisco, San Jose and Sacramento, and is also convenient to I-580 and Highway 99.

“Companies that locate here are going to have their pick of top-notch employees, pulling reverse-commuters from all these population centers, as well as those who choose to live and work right here,” Dell’Osso says.

The site has approximately 350 acres for more than 5 million square feet of development with advanced green, water- and energy-saving construction and amenities. Warehouse or industrial use is not permitted, but the flexible space can be used for a single purpose, a headquarters campus, or research and development.

Courtesy of River Islands Development

“We’re really an example of how a rising tide lifts all boats,” Dell’Osso says. “In addition to population growth, average household income has nearly doubled in the time we’ve been here. It’s exciting to have been a part of the success so far, and we are grateful for the transformation that continues to unfold thanks to a responsive and responsible community.”

To learn more about River Islands homes, community amenities and lifestyle, visit riverislands.com.