A key retail spot in the heart of Downtown San Jose changes hands as the former Safeway storefront at 100 S. Second St. sells at auction for $1,950,000. This 24,090-square-foot ground-floor space, part of a 23-story condominium complex with 197 residential units, has sat vacant for years but now holds potential to reinvigorate the bustling corner. The sale signals growing interest in Downtown properties, offering a chance for fresh concepts to take root amid nearby homes and daily foot traffic.
Safeway operated in the location for a decade starting in 2009 before closing, with city officials pointing to the end of subsidized underground parking as a factor. The building also features a separately owned parking garage, adding convenience for future tenants and visitors. As Downtown San Jose works through retail and office vacancies, this transaction aligns with broader efforts to fill spaces and create lively street-level experiences for residents and shoppers.
Recent market data shows promise, with Silicon Valley retail vacancies reaching 5.2 percent in the second quarter of 2025, and the submarket including San Jose at 5.4 percent. City initiatives continue to focus on drawing businesses and events to the core, making spots like this ideal for groceries, cafes, or community hubs. With its high-visibility position, the site could soon host something that draws crowds and supports the neighborhood's growth. I'm hoping for another grocery store, but beggars can't be choosers.
Source: SVBJ
