In the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula, where the shimmering waters of the lagoon reflect a community grounded in innovation and neighbourly values, Richa Awasthi Foster City leadership shines as a beacon of what it means to serve with purpose. For more than two decades, Richa Awasthi has not only lived in Foster City, but she has also helped shape its destiny.
Richa Awasthi: From Resident to Remarkable Leader
When Richa Awasthi settled in Foster City over 20 years ago, she wasn’t content to simply enjoy its parks, waterways, and tight-knit community—she rolled up her sleeves and got to work. As a parent, volunteer, committee member, and eventually a councilmember and mayor, she became a relentless advocate for every corner of the community.
Her journey into public service was born from the belief that every resident deserves a voice, every neighbourhood deserves attention, and every city deserves bold, inclusive leadership.
Delivering Real Results for Foster City
Richa’s tenure on the Foster City Council (2018–2022) and as Mayor (2021–2022) was more than symbolic. It was action-driven and results-oriented. At the heart of her achievements was the Levee Improvements Project, the largest infrastructure investment in Foster City’s history. Thanks to her oversight, the $90 million project was not only completed on time but under budget—a rare feat in public works.
But that was only the beginning.
Amid the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, when businesses struggled and uncertainty loomed, Richa Awasthi Foster City leadership stood as a stabilizing force. She led efforts to distribute over $500,000 in grants and support for small businesses, recognizing that local entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the community. At a time when many cities were retreating, Foster City advanced under her guidance.
She spearheaded the adoption of Foster City’s first minimum wage ordinance, protecting the city’s most vulnerable workers, and worked with colleagues to generate general fund surpluses for four consecutive years, even identifying new revenue streams to combat looming structural deficits.
Richa Awasthi: A Champion for All
Richa’s leadership style is grounded in inclusivity and accountability. Her decisions reflect a deep commitment to fiscal responsibility, but also to human dignity. She didn’t just manage city budgets—she managed community hope. From pushing for relocation assistance for low-income and elderly residents at Foster’s Landing to supporting affordable housing purchases, Richa ensured no one was left behind.
As Mayor, she saw beyond statistics and strategies—she saw people. She understood that good governance isn’t just about what you build, but how you build trust. Whether it was enhancing public safety with automated license plate readers that helped reduce vehicle thefts by 50%, or launching traffic solutions like the dynamic signage and no-left-turn pilot on E. Hillsdale Blvd (which earned her city an APWA Silicon Valley award), her solutions were always rooted in community well-being.
A Voice in Regional Leadership
Richa didn’t limit her service to just city boundaries. Her voice resonated across the Bay Area. She represented Foster City on prestigious regional bodies, including:
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Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)
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League of California Cities
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Peninsula Clean Energy Authority
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Emergency Services Council
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City/County Association of Governments (C/CAG)
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South Bayside Waste Management Authority (SBWMA)
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Commute.org
Her ability to collaborate at both local and regional levels made her a powerful advocate for Foster City’s needs in larger arenas, ensuring her community always had a seat at the table.
A Professional with Global Expertise
Beyond her civic roles, Richa brings over 24 years of executive experience in banking, technology, and finance, having worked with some of the world’s top financial institutions. Her professional expertise provided a unique advantage—she governed with the precision of a financial strategist and the empathy of a community organiser.
Her insights helped Foster City emerge from economic trials with stronger fiscal health, smarter infrastructure investments, and a blueprint for sustainable growth.
Richa Awasthi: Building the Future, Preserving the Past
One of the most ambitious projects under her leadership was the $55 million reconstruction of the recreation centre, a long-awaited dream for the community. As part of a three-person task force, she ensured the right construction partner was selected, setting in motion a project that will serve future generations.
She also prioritised the city’s natural resources, advancing a dredging plan to restore and protect Foster City’s beloved waterways.
Celebrated and Honoured
When Richa Awasthi stepped down from the City Council in 2022, her departure was marked by heartfelt recognition from peers, residents, and even Congresswoman Jackie Speier, who praised her legacy and impact. As Speier put it, “Richa upheld the values of responsible growth, affordability, and public accountability.”
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