Who We Are
South City Mesh is a neighbor-led project that helps South San Francisco residents stay connected when it matters most.
Our members build and support a low-cost, battery-friendly community text network using 915 MHz LoRa (Meshtastic), so that anyone (neighbors, CERT teams, local volunteers, etc) can share short text messages and locations during such events as power shutoffs or other events that might disrupt Internet and cellular service.
While many of us are ham operators or tech enthusiasts, technical skills are not necessary for to use this system.
Our mission
Enable South City inhabitants the ability to securely exchange essential information to fellow neighbors.
What we do
Neighborhood texting network: Simple, encrypted short messages that work without cell or internet.
Coverage nodes / relays: Window, rooftop, and solar “always-on” nodes that extend coverage across hills and valleys.
Training & drills: Enable practice sessions for block captains, CERTs, and interested neighbors.
Create open playbooks: Step-by-step guides so any street, apartment, or building can join in.
Enable Interoperability: Optional bridges to ham radio, internet, and high-speed emergency mesh where appropriate.
How it works
Meshtastic radios use the license-free 915 MHz ISM band to form a local “mesh.” Each device relays tiny text packets for others, so messages can hop across the neighborhood. Radios can run for days on a small battery bank, and channels can be encrypted for privacy. You don’t need a radio license to participate.
Who we are (and who we are not)
We’re South San Francisco neighbors and volunteers who care about preparedness and making it easy for neighbors to communicate with neighbors during a cellular outage.
We are NOT a replacement for 911, public safety radio, or your existing emergency plans. We complement them with an ad hoc communication system that doesn't rely on public infrastructure. We are also NOT selling anything.
While we may collaborate with local groups when invited, we are NOT an official arm of any agency or city department.
Who would use this?
Residents and CERT members who want a backup to coordinate safety checks and resource sharing with their neighbors.
Neighbors who want to check in with each other during power outages or other major events.
Homes, small businesses, and community sites willing to extend coverage with a window or rooftop relay.
Partner with us
Are you with CERT, a ham club, a community org, a school, or a small business?
We can work with you to host demos, set up a pilot, and test it out with your community.