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Merced

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Merced
NameMerced
Settlement typeCity
Nickname"Gateway to Yosemite"
Pushpin labelMerced
Coordinates37, 18, N, 120...
Subdivision typeCountry
Subdivision nameUnited States
Subdivision type1State
Subdivision name1California
Subdivision type2County
Subdivision name2Merced County
Established titleFounded
Established date1889
Government typeCouncil–manager government
Leader titleMayor
Leader nameMatthew Serratto
Leader title1City Manager
Leader name1Stephanie Dietz
Unit prefImperial
Area total sq mi23.59
Area land sq mi23.59
Area water sq mi0.00
Elevation ft174
Population total86,333
Population as of2020
Population density sq miauto
TimezonePacific Time Zone
Utc offset-8
Timezone DSTPDT
Utc offset DST-7
Postal code typeZIP Codes
Postal code95340–95341, 95348, 95351
Area code209
Blank nameFIPS code
Blank info06-46898
Blank1 nameGNIS feature IDs
Blank1 info0277565, 2411065
Websitewww.cityofmerced.org

Merced. A city in the San Joaquin Valley and the county seat of Merced County, California. Often called the "Gateway to Yosemite," it serves as a primary northern access point to Yosemite National Park. The city's development has been closely tied to the Southern Pacific Railroad, agriculture, and the establishment of the University of California, Merced.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Yokuts people, specifically the Plains Miwok. European exploration began with the Spanish missions in California, and the land later became part of a Mexican land grant known as Rancho San Luis Gonzaga. Settlement accelerated with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1872, and the city was officially incorporated in 1889. Significant 20th-century developments included the construction of Castle Air Force Base, a major training facility for the United States Air Force during the Cold War, and the pivotal 1995 decision by the University of California Regents to locate the system's tenth campus there, which opened in 2005.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city encompasses a total area of approximately 24 square miles, entirely land. It lies within the San Joaquin Valley, a portion of the larger Great Basin province. The primary waterway is the Merced River, which flows from the Sierra Nevada through the city on its way to the San Joaquin River. The climate is classified as Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, foggy winters, typical of the Central Valley.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 86,333, reflecting significant growth driven by the university. The racial makeup is diverse, with notable Hispanic and Latino Americans and Asian American communities. The city is part of the Merced–Madera Combined Statistical Area. Educational attainment levels have risen markedly since the opening of University of California, Merced, which attracts students and faculty from across the state and nation, altering the traditional demographic profile centered on agriculture.

Economy

Historically dominated by agricultural production, including dairy, almonds, and poultry, the economy has diversified. Major employers now include the University of California, Merced, Merced College, and the County of Merced government. The former Castle Air Force Base has been redeveloped into the Castle Commerce Center, an industrial and business park. Retail and healthcare sectors are significant, with Dignity Health operating the main hospital. The city's position as the "Gateway to Yosemite" also supports a growing tourism and hospitality industry.

Culture and contemporary life

The city is home to cultural institutions like the Merced Multicultural Arts Center and the Merced Theatre, a restored 1930s venue. The Merced County Fair is a major annual event. The downtown area features historic architecture and a growing number of restaurants and shops. The Applegate Park Zoo is a popular family destination. As a college town, the presence of University of California, Merced has spurred arts, lectures, and NCAA athletic events, particularly through the UC Merced Golden Bobcats.

Government

The city operates under a council–manager government system. Legislative authority is vested in a five-member Merced City Council, which includes a directly elected mayor, currently Matthew Serratto, and four council members elected by district. The council appoints a city manager, Stephanie Dietz, to oversee daily operations. The city provides police protection through the Merced Police Department and fire services through the Merced Fire Department. It is part of California's 13th State Senate district, California's 21st State Assembly district, and California's 13th congressional district.

Category:Cities in Merced County, California Category:County seats in California Category:1889 establishments in California