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

Bonus: BART Extension Takes Shape

Construction on the BART Silicon Valley Phase II project has advanced as crews at the West Portal site near PayPal Park and the Santa Clara train station have dug a launch shaft for the tunnel boring machine. This effort focuses on creating a cut-and-cover ramp where trains will enter and exit the underground tunnel, built by excavating to the required depth and then constructing a steel and concrete structure before backfilling.

The tunnel will stretch five miles eastward to connect with the Berryessa BART station, running 80 feet below ground. Tunnel boring is set to begin in the first quarter of 2028 or 2029 and continue for three to three and a half years. Three new underground stations will serve riders along the route at Diridon, Downtown San Jose, and 28th Street in Little Portugal. A fourth above-ground station will be built in Santa Clara.

With a projected opening in 2037 (sorry, but wtf?), the extension promises to link San Jose more closely to the broader Bay Area network. Current estimates place the cost between $12.1 billion and $12.5 billion, reflecting the scale of this infrastructure investment. The arrival of BART underground will open doors to new opportunities, from quicker trips to Silicon Valley jobs to seamless connections to Downtown San Jose.

Source: SVBJ