The University of California, Davis, the city of Sacramento, and Wexford Science & Technology released the first Aggie Square Community Benefits Partnership Agreement Annual Progress Report on Apr. 2, summarizing early results and investments linked to the Aggie Square innovation district.
The report covers activities from 2021 through December 2025 and details efforts to provide affordable housing, workforce development, youth programs, community access, and infrastructure improvements for neighborhoods near Aggie Square. The agreement was established in 2021 after significant community engagement.
According to the report, $74 million has been committed to affordable housing projects along Stockton Boulevard that are expected to create about 1,500 units. Another $10 million has supported anti-displacement programs serving local residents. Over 350 events have taken place at Aggie Square with more than 13,500 attendees; this includes providing $792,000 in value through discounted or waived venue fees for public access. Workforce initiatives enrolled over 230 participants and led to more than 80 job placements through pilot training programs. The NextGen Bio program launched its inaugural cohort with participation from students and educators focused on biotechnology careers.
UC Davis Chancellor Gary S. May said: “Aggie Square builds on the university’s mission to foster innovation that is accessible, community-focused and responsive to the priorities of our local residents. Through our commitment to the Community Benefits Partnership Agreement, we are ensuring that opportunities benefit and extend to surrounding neighborhoods for future generations to come.”
Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty said: “Aggie Square represents a unique model for how cities, universities and private partners can work together to expand opportunity. These investments in affordable housing and neighborhood stability are essential to ensuring that long-time residents can benefit from the growth happening in Sacramento.”
Ted Russell, president and chief executive of Wexford Science & Technology said: “Opening Aggie Square to the community is central to its success as a shared place for connection and opportunity. Building a thriving innovation district requires more than constructing state-of-the-art facilities. It demands sustained investment in relationships with faculty, entrepreneurs, industry partners and neighborhood residents; intentional development of workforce pathways; support for early-stage companies; and continued collaboration with community organizations and corridor businesses.”
The establishment of an Aggie Square Community Partnership body is guiding local investment priorities with its first grant cycle underway. Additional efforts include public meetings as well as planning improvements along Stockton Boulevard aimed at enhancing mobility and safety.
University California Davis extends its research globally on issues like climate change according to its official website. The university features facilities such as Bodega Marine Laboratory for coastal research according to its official website. UC Davis has achieved top national rankings in agriculture, veterinary medicine and sustainability according to its official website. The institution began as an extension of UC Berkeley focused on agriculture according to its official website, while also focusing on serving California through research addressing societal needs according to its official website. Gary May served as chancellor at UC Davis according to its official website.
Looking ahead nearly one year since inauguration of Aggie Square’s first buildings in May 2025, partners plan ongoing tracking of commitments outlined by their agreement while inviting further public engagement.