East San Jose's Light Rail Extension Advances Toward 2028 Opening

San Jose marks a significant step forward in public transit with the ongoing construction of the VTA Orange Line extension, a 2.4-mile addition that connects East San Jose more directly to the broader Bay Area network. This project, the first light rail expansion in over two decades, stretches from Alum Rock Station along Capitol Expressway to a new terminus at Eastridge Transit Center. Elevated viaducts carry the line above busy roadways, minimizing disruptions and enhancing safety for riders and drivers alike.

The extension includes two new stations designed for convenience and accessibility. An elevated stop at Story Road features pedestrian bridges, elevators, and stairs to link seamlessly with surrounding neighborhoods. The at-grade station at Tully Road integrates with the Eastridge Mall and existing bus services, making transfers straightforward. This setup supports local businesses during construction and promises to boost foot traffic once operational, invigorating commercial areas like shopping centers and eateries along the route.

Beyond immediate connectivity, the line links to BART at Milpitas, opening up efficient travel options to destinations across the region. Residents in East San Jose gain reliable alternatives to car travel amid growing congestion on major arterials. The development also highlights opportunities for smarter land use, such as reimagining underutilized spaces like Reid-Hillview Airport for community benefits.

The total budget exceeds $650 million and the grand opening is anticipated for 2028 (a year earlier than planned).

For more details, watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiHmXvXd6KU

Source: Usedmedia on Skyscraper City

Waymo has expanded service to Downtown San Jose and beyond

Waymo is now operating even deeper into San Jose! Previously you could only get a Waymo near SJC, West San Jose, and North San Jose. Now all of Downtown San Jose is covered along with The Alameda, Rose Garden, and part of Central San Jose (Happy Hollow, Kelley Park, History San Jose, Tech CU Arena).

The expansion arrives just in time to show off our autonomous ride-hailing capabilities to Super Bowl and World Cup attendees. More competition and access generally translates to lower prices, which also means more people will have the option to live without the expense of a car. 

Tesla is also increasing their number of Robotaxis in Silicon Valley. Their coverage map already covers the majority of San Jose, but unlike Waymo a safety driver is still required. Tesla has started fully autonomous rides with no one in the car in Austin.

It will only be a year or two before autonomous rides are commonplace in the South Bay. Waymo has already overtaken Lyft to be the second most popular ride-hailing solution in San Francisco.

Source: Ethan McKanna on X

Celebrity Chefs Elevate The Players Tailgate Ahead of Super Bowl 60

The Players Tailgate is the ultimate pre-Super Bowl VIP experience on February 8, 2026. This pre-game event, organized by Bullseye Event Group, features a lineup of renowned chefs and live entertainment.

The chef roster includes Aaron May for bold flavors, Marc Murphy as a respected restaurateur, Kelsey Murphy from MasterChef, Aarón Sanchez of Johnny Sánchez and Chopped fame, Tristen Epps as a Top Chef champion, Shota Nakajima with multiple James Beard nods, Josh Capon of VCR Group, Adam Sobel from AETHER GROUP, Catherine McCord behind Weelicious, Leah Cohen of Pig & Khao, Chris Cosentino for whole-animal expertise, Damaris Phillips with Southern influences, and 10/10 Burger for smash burgers. These talents will create multi-station offerings that range from gourmet specialties to creative comfort foods.

DJ Irie provides the soundtrack, delivering high-energy sets that keep the atmosphere lively as guests prepare for kickoff. Known as a top pre-game destination, The Players Tailgate draws celebrities and enthusiasts, making it a standout way to experience the Super Bowl, even if you don't have tickets to the big game.

For tickets and more information: https://bullseyeeventgroup.com/super-bowl-60-in-santa-clara/2026-players-tailgate-santa-clara

Tamien Station Apartments Open as Affordable Housing Near San Jose Transit

Tamien Station Apartments is San Jose's first new transit-oriented housing development in more than 20 years. Situated next to the Tamien Light Rail and Caltrain station on Lick Avenue, the project offers 135 units that connect residents directly to public transportation for easier commutes and daily travel.

Units include one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments available to families earning below 60 percent of the area median income. Over half provide rapid rehousing support to assist individuals and families moving from homelessness. Amenities feature on-site daycare, a rooftop playground, food pantry, fitness room, and shared community spaces to support everyday needs.

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority developed the site from a former VTA parking lot, leasing it to Urban Co Tamien LLC, a joint venture of Core and Republic Urban Properties. This marks the initial phase of a broader mixed-income community planned for 555 units across 1.6 acres.

Such efforts expand access to quality housing integrated with transit, promoting both stability and reducing reliance on cars. Future VTA projects aim to add thousands more homes near stations, building on this foundation for an greater community benefit.

Source: https://www.ktvu.com/news/santa-clara-vta-celebrates-opening-san-jose-affordable-apartments

Bar Tako Opens with Mexican-Japanese Flavors in Downtown San Jose

Bar Tako is about to become one of San Jose's most unique food offerings. It's a pop-up restaurant blending Mexican and Japanese cuisines at 17 North San Pedro Street in San Pedro Square. Set to open in late February 2026 and run through June, this temporary spot activates a key Downtown location previously home to Olla Cocina. Industry experts Derek Belanger and Greg Nasser lead the project, drawing on Nikkei influences from Peru to craft dishes that merge bold tastes in unexpected ways.

The menu divides into sections for shared plates, encouraging group dining experiences. Raw bar selections feature sushi-grade hamachi paired with salsa verde and salmon tartare alongside mango-shiso pico de gallo served with chips. Robata grill options include grilled pork and chicken skewers with housemade masa tortillas, corn ribs topped with Kewpie mayo and furikake, and Okinawa sweet potato with mole aioli and cotija cheese. Standout entrees range from togarashi shrimp tacos to shoyu-braised beef short rib tamales with ancho chile sauce and pickled ginger, plus A5 wagyu accompanied by mole.

Desserts offer creative twists like three varieties of sweet tamales with sauces, such as a red bean version drizzled in miso-caramel. The bar complements the food with tequila, mezcal, Japanese whisky, beers from both cultures, and Baja California wines including Nebiolos and chilled reds. Open daily from noon to 10 p.m., Bar Tako invites San Jose foodies to explore one of the most unique food offerings in the South Bay.

Source: Eater

USWNT Set to Face Japan at PayPal Park in April

San Jose welcomes the U.S. Women's National Team back to PayPal Park for an international friendly against Japan on April 11, 2026. The match kicks off at 2:30 p.m., marking the seventh time the USWNT has played at this venue where they hold a strong 5-1-0 record. This event continues a longstanding rivalry that began in 1986, with memorable clashes in world finals during the 2010s and a recent quarterfinal in the 2024 Olympics where the U.S. secured a 1-0 victory en route to gold.

The game holds special significance for the Bay Area, as many USWNT players past and present have deep connections to the region. San Jose hosted the team's first match in California back in 1997 at Spartan Stadium, resulting in a decisive win over England. Now, PayPal Park serves as a hub for high-profile soccer, having recently featured CONCACAF Men's Gold Cup matches last summer with teams like the United States, El Salvador, Honduras, and Curaçao.

Mayor Matt Mahan emphasizes how such occasions establish San Jose as a destination where people come together for distinctive experiences. The USWNT coach expresses admiration for Japan's skilled play and team identity, adding to the anticipation. Fans can expect an energetic atmosphere that showcases the city's vibrant sports scene.

To purchase tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/us-womens-national-team-v-japan-san-jose-california-04-11-2026/event/1C00643496628F1A

Source: SVBJ

Join Mayor Mahan for Today's Tackle San Jose Clean-Up

San Jose residents have a chance today to roll up their sleeves and contribute to a brighter future for our city. The Tackle San Jose clean-up event focuses on the Julian area in Downtown San Jose, bringing together neighbors, city leaders, and partners like the San Jose Sharks and the San Jose Conservation Corps. This initiative prepares our streets for Super Bowl 60, ensuring visitors see the best of what San Jose offers while fostering community pride among locals.

Participating means picking up litter, beautifying public spaces, and connecting with fellow volunteers who share a passion for a cleaner environment. Events like this highlight how collective action strengthens neighborhoods and showcases San Jose's commitment to safety and vitality. There are multiple dates in the series, including upcoming ones in areas like San Fernando and Plaza de Cesar Chavez.

Head out this morning to make a tangible difference. RSVP through the Downtown San Jose Association to get specific details on meeting points and what to bring.

For more information and to RSVP: https://sjdowntown.com/event/tackle-san-jose-clean-up-with-the-mayor/2026-01-24/

New Transportation Options Enhance Mobility in East San Jose

New East San Jose initiatives are catering to those without cars, offering affordable alternatives that promote active lifestyles. With expansions in bikeshare and the introduction of on-demand microtransit, the city demonstrates a focus on accessibility that benefits everyone from daily commuters to families running errands.

The Bay Wheels bikeshare program, operated by Lyft, expands into East San Jose this summer. This move links areas like Mayfair and Alum Rock to Downtown San Jose and the Berryessa BART Station, creating seamless routes for work, school, or leisure. Eligible residents can access an annual membership for just $5, with each ride costing $1, making it a practical choice for short trips that also encourage outdoor activity and reduce traffic congestion.

Launching in late fall, the Pa’Lante microtransit pilot provides on-demand rides in an all-electric fleet for two years. Users book corner-to-corner service through an app or phone, with door-to-door options available for seniors, parents with young children, and individuals with disabilities. Fares match VTA rates, including free transfers, and vehicles accommodate wheelchairs and bikes to support combined travel modes.

Additional resources round out these offerings, such as the Clipper START program for 50% discounts on Bay Area transit for income-qualified riders. Youth and seniors benefit from similar reduced fares, while those with disabilities can use the Clipper Access card. The VTA Summer Youth Pass allows unlimited rides for those 18 and under during summer months, further easing movement around the city.

For more information: https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/7117/4765

Apple Expands Its Footprint in North San Jose with New Tech Campus

San Jose continues to solidify its role as a hub for innovation with Apple's latest move into North San Jose. The tech giant has started occupying a building at 2509 Orchard Parkway, where several hundred team members are already at work. Apple is preparing to fill another nearby structure at 2325 Orchard Parkway starting in February. Together, these spaces span nearly 500,000 square feet, blending office and lab environments to fuel research and development.

This development highlights Apple's commitment to the core of Silicon Valley, enhancing San Jose's landscape with facilities designed for collaboration and creativity. The buildings sit prominently near the junction of Highway 101 and 87 in the Golden Triangle, making them a visible symbol of the city's growing tech presence. As Apple invests in these sites, it positions San Jose to attract even more talent and dollars to the area.

Beyond the immediate impact, Apple's actions reflect a strategic approach to real estate in the South Bay. The company has spent over $1.1 billion on properties in Santa Clara County in recent months, including discussions for additional spaces in Sunnyvale.

Source: The Mercury News

Santana Row Swapping Best Buy with Life Time Fitness

Best Buy has served as a staple at Santana Row for 23 years, offering electronics and gadgets to shoppers since the retail center's early days. The store at 3090 Stevens Creek Blvd will close its doors on February 28, marking the end of its lease. This change reflects the company's routine evaluation of locations as leases expire.

Up to 60 employees may face layoffs starting in March if they do not secure positions elsewhere in the company. Best Buy plans to assist affected workers by offering roles at nearby San Jose stores. The company operates several other locations in the area, providing options for continuity.

The closure ends a chapter that began around the completion of Santana Row. Best Buy arrived during the second phase of development, joining as one of two big-box additions alongside the Container Store. This era helped shape the vibrant shopping destination that draws visitors from across the region.

The good news is that the two-story space will not be empty for long. Life Time fitness is stepping into the 52,000-square-foot building. This luxury health and wellness center will feature exercise equipment, group studios, children's classes, wet spas, a cafe, and a work lounge.

For more information on Life Time, visit https://www.lifetime.life.

Santa Clara's Record Housing Surge

Santa Clara wrapped up 2025 with an impressive 2,768 new residential units, far surpassing the 155 completions from 2024 and earlier years. Most of these additions came as apartments and condominiums, with a small portion from accessory dwelling units and single-family homes. This wave of development marks a high point for the city, reflecting years of preparation that now deliver much-needed options amid the Bay Area's tight inventory.

The completions stem from projects that locked in financing before interest rates rose sharply. City officials credit efficient planning processes for keeping momentum strong, including detailed neighborhood plans that align with property owners' visions. These efforts streamlined approvals and construction, setting Santa Clara apart in a region where such progress often stalls.

Key activity centered in the Tasman East neighborhood, now known as The Clara District, where a 2018 specific plan transformed industrial land into a high-density, transit-focused area. Projects like AVE Santa Clara, Mainline North, and Ellore contributed significantly, alongside 10 multifamily developments citywide. Two of those focused entirely on affordable housing, supported by builders such as SummerHill, Ensemble, Greystar, and USA Properties.

Looking to 2026, officials anticipate a slower pace as the market absorbs recent additions and navigates past financing challenges. Still, ongoing demand signals steady opportunities ahead, reinforcing Santa Clara's role in addressing regional housing needs.

Source: SVBJ

Google's Downtown West Vision

San Jose stands on the cusp of transformation with Google's ambitious Downtown West project near Diridon Station and the SAP Center. Plans call for reshaping an industrial stretch into a vibrant mixed-use district featuring millions of square feet in office space, thousands of homes, ample retail and cultural venues, plus 15 acres of green parks. This development promises to weave together work, living, and leisure in the heart of the city, drawing on nearly a decade of collaboration that began with land acquisitions in 2018.

Recent steps show steady groundwork, including demolitions from 2022 to 2024 that cleared sites like a longstanding hardware store and Patty's Inn. Google has introduced temporary enhancements such as protective coatings on buildings and new gathering spots that already spark community activity. These moves coincide with rising property values in the area, bolstering the local tax base, and a $12.5 million contribution toward broader initiatives. Even amid pauses, the presence fuels economic uplift and attracts fresh tenants to invigorate the neighborhood.

The hold stems from shifts brought by the pandemic, which altered work patterns and led to elevated office vacancies across Silicon Valley, including a 32 percent rate in Downtown San Jose by late 2025. Google views such large-scale efforts as multi-decade endeavors that adapt over time, maintaining dialogue with developers while assessing real estate demands. This measured approach allows for potential refinements, perhaps emphasizing more housing to align with evolving needs.

City leaders express strong confidence in the project's eventual realization, highlighting San Jose's gains so far and the commitment from all sides. Former officials note the global challenges faced but anticipate renewed progress as conditions improve. The Diridon area holds potential for even more square footage in future builds, positioning San Jose as a leader in balanced urban growth.

Source: KQED

San Jose Launches Game On Youth Sports Program Ahead of Epic 2026 Events

San Jose is introducing the Game On youth sports program, designed to inspire thousands of local students and community members. Officials gathered at the Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley - Smythe Clubhouse to unveil this initiative, part of the city's SJ26 campaign and backed by the San Jose Sports Authority. From January through June, 50 activations called Game On Moments will roll out at schools and community spots, reaching young people with hands-on sports experiences. Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized turning the year's major events into enduring benefits that extend far past the calendar.

The South Bay hosts Super Bowl LX, three March Madness games, and six World Cup matches between February 8 and July 1, drawing global attention. Former San Jose Earthquakes player Shea Salinas, now a club ambassador, highlighted how preparations for community involvement started with the World Cup announcement. He noted the importance of professional organizations in creating positive change. San Francisco 49ers President Al Guido added that connecting kids with athletes fosters a cycle of inspiration, where pros reflect on their own early influences while guiding the next generation.

To build a lasting legacy, the program focuses on infrastructure like fields, coaches, referees, and leagues to support youth development. Salinas pointed out the need to capitalize on the excitement around soccer and football, ensuring stable environments where kids can grow. This ripple effect aims to instill values that carry forward, with families passing on the passion for sports. Brandi Chastain, founder of Bay FC, introduced goalie Jordan Silkowitz, recently named to the U.S. national team, to show how dedication leads to achievement.

Source: SVBJ

Guitar Wars and The Void Celebrate Grand Opening in Downtown San Jose

San Jose is getting a new boost to its music landscape with the arrival of Guitar Wars and The Void at 447 South First Street in Downtown San Jose. The city is supporting the launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony today, starting at 3 p.m. Councilmember Anthony Tordillos, the San Jose Downtown Association, and owners Carlos Gascon and Josiah Kverno will share remarks. S.J. Sharkie joins as a special guest, bringing energy for families and offering photo opportunities during the event.

Guitar Wars began in 2013 at 4110 Monterey Highway in the Seven Trees neighborhood, where it built a loyal following over 12 years. Now relocating Downtown, the store focuses on musical instruments alongside The Void, a repair shop dedicated to affordable, high-quality service. Formed by a close-knit group of family, friends, musicians, and gear enthusiasts, Guitar Wars fosters a fun, inclusive environment tied to music culture. Its name nods to sci-fi themes and the drive behind every player's setup. The Void addresses needs in instrument maintenance and the broader scene, making sure budget constraints do not limit access to reliable care.

The celebration extends beyond the ceremony with live sets from local bands, a guitar raffle, and displays from area artists. Come February, music lessons launch, along with open mics and various events. The shop plans workshops on maintenance basics, electronics for guitars, and general upkeep to suit beginners and pros alike. This setup creates a central spot for discovering, practicing, and linking up within San Jose's music world.

Downtown San Jose thrives with its arts and festivals, including SoFA, blues, and jazz gatherings, but lacks robust music retail options. Guitar Wars steps in to bridge that, positioning itself amid the action to aid performers and enrich the community.

Photo by Gary Singh

FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide

The first long weekend of the year marks a unique San Jose tradition. If you notice a bunch of furry costumed characters running around Downtown San Jose, then you know FurCon is in town. If you want to increase your chances of seeing these rare creatures, below is the official FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide. 

Some of the places on the list like Fox Tail Fermentation Project and Haberdasher even have specials for FurCon attendees if they are wearing their suits. It's a fun weekend to hang out Downtown!

A Night on the Avenue: Evening Delights in Downtown Willow Glen

San Jose's Willow Glen neighborhood hosts A Night on the Avenue on Saturday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM along Lincoln Avenue. This free event invites residents and visitors to explore the tree-lined streets filled with sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and easy free parking. Organized by the Willow Glen Business Association, the gathering turns the area into a lively spot for an evening out with friends or family.

Participating merchants offer a range of treats and promotions to enhance the stroll. Live entertainment fills the air at Copita Tequileria y Comida, where Chef Azari presents a special menu. Nearby, Sushi Confidential provides 20 percent off food and beverages, while Aldea Home San Jose serves refreshments. Shoppers find deals like 15 percent off entire purchases at BellaJames, no sales tax plus 10 percent off at Whatnots and Dodads, and free gift bags with qualifying buys at Aldea Home.

Additional highlights include a free brain hack demo and parent tip card pack at Brain Hacks Occupational Therapy, along with 20 percent off party rentals. The event showcases Willow Glen's small-town charm within San Jose, blending diverse dining, unique shopping, and community services in one accessible location.

For full details, visit https://www.willowglen.org/a-night-on-the-avenue.

Asia Live Set to Elevate Dining at Westfield Valley Fair

An expansive new restaurant named Asia Live is preparing to open at Westfield Valley Fair, bringing a wide array of flavors from across the continent to the San Jose area. This two-story venue spans about 13,000 square feet and offers seating for 350 guests, featuring dishes inspired by Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and India. The concept builds on the success of its San Francisco predecessor, China Live, expanding the focus to celebrate a broader range of Asian culinary traditions in a marketplace-style setting.

The location at 2855 Stevens Creek Boulevard places Asia Live next to Shake Shack and across from Eataly, in the space once occupied by iChina. This addition enhances the mall's lineup of international eateries, drawing more visitors to explore the shopping and dining hub that serves as a key attraction for San Jose residents and those from surrounding communities. With a bar offering upscale cocktails similar to the original's popular spot, the restaurant aims to create a dynamic environment for meals, gatherings, and evening outings.

Scheduled for a spring 2026 debut, sometime between March and May, Asia Live represents another step in the ongoing growth of high-quality dining options in the region. It complements Westfield Valley Fair's role as a premier destination, where visitors can do more than just shop.

For more information, visit www.westfield.com/valleyfair.

Source: KRON4 (hat tip to usedmedia from Skyscraper City)

Silicon Valley Queer Film Festival Takes Center Stage in San Jose

San Jose hosts the Silicon Valley Queer Film Festival this weekend, drawing attention to compelling queer stories through short films and live performances. The event runs January 16 and 17, offering a platform for LGBTQ+ artists and filmmakers to share their work with the community. Local talent shines brightly, with contributions from Bay Area creators and San Jose State University students, making this a true reflection of the city's creative energy.

Friday's kick-off GAYLA unfolds at the Signia by Hilton in Downtown San Jose from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, setting the tone with celebrations of queer art. Festival pass holders gain access to an exclusive program from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, adding a layer of special engagement for dedicated supporters.

Saturday shifts to AMC Saratoga 14 for a full day of screenings from noon to 10:00pm, divided into five themed blocks that cover love, joy, science fiction, relationships, and deep emotions. Highlights include films such as Coven of the Midnight Sun and Alyssum, alongside drag routines by Ivy Flores and Empress Astara in the later sessions. Co-hosting partners like Qmunity, Silicon Valley Rainbow Rotary, and the Santa Clara Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs bring community focus to each block.

Tickets are available now, with options including $15 per individual block, $50 for a day pass covering all Saturday screenings plus Friday's regular program, or $75 for the full festival pass with exclusive access. For tickets and more details, visit https://fishnetsfilm.org/siliconvalleyqueerfilmfestival/.

Bloom Coming Soon to Downtown San Jose

This second location from the popular Santa Clara spot brings a menu focused on inventive brunch dishes, hearty lunches, and creative cocktails to the heart of the city. Diners can expect options like smoked chicken apple sausage scramble, croissant French toast topped with fresh berries, and avocado toast with unique twists that highlight seasonal ingredients.

The new venue at 225 W Santa Clara Street occupies the space formerly held by Opa!, directly across from the Pressroom, adding to the growing cluster of vibrant eateries in the area. With its cozy interior and outdoor seating, Bloom provides a welcoming atmosphere for morning meetings, weekend gatherings, or casual afternoons. The emphasis on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation has already drawn locals and visitors alike, contributing to the lively street scene along Santa Clara Street.

This addition strengthens Downtown San Jose's reputation as a destination for diverse dining experiences. Bloom's arrival supports the ongoing revitalization, offering another reason for people to explore the neighborhood's mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Whether starting the day with a craft mimosa or enjoying a midday salad, the eatery invites everyone to savor what DTSJ has to offer.

For more details or to place an online order at their original location, visit www.bloomeatery.com.

Source: Willow Glen Charm

Downtown San Jose Then and Now: 1975 to Today

A collection of photographs from 1975, discovered in 2006 by architect Gerald Greenleaf while working for the San Jose Redevelopment Agency, offers a striking look at Downtown San Jose's evolution. These images, captured during a comprehensive street survey, stand in contrast to current views, with nearly half the scenes transformed beyond recognition and others heavily modified. The comparisons serve as a visual record of urban redevelopment, touching on themes of memory and city identity.

In 1975, Downtown featured wide streets, low-rise structures, and open blocks dotted with parking lots, creating a sparse and exposed landscape under the sun. Fewer trees left sidewalks bare, contributing to a slower, smaller-scale feel with plenty of visible sky. Fast forward to today, and the area boasts increased density through office towers, hotels, cultural spaces, and improved transit options that redefine the skyline and grid.

Greenery has multiplied, with trees now shading walkways and softening the edges of buildings for a more inviting environment. The shift stems largely from 1990s redevelopment efforts that pushed for ambition and vertical growth, turning underused spaces into a modern hub. This change reflects San Jose's ongoing transition from agricultural roots to a regional powerhouse.

These side-by-side views remind residents of what has been gained in vibrancy and lost in openness, preserving stories of the city's layers. Downtown San Jose continues to adapt, blending past elements with new possibilities.

For more details, visit https://www.retrobayarea.com/post/downtown-san-jose-then-and-now-1975-today.