Massive STEM Park Set to Transform North San Jose

San Jose is moving forward with plans to develop 159 acres of undeveloped land into a cutting-edge campus focused on data centers and advanced manufacturing. The city selected Prologis, a global leader in logistics real estate, to negotiate the project after reviewing proposals from several firms. This initiative turns empty fields near the regional wastewater facility into a hub for innovation, with four large data centers and additional buildings dedicated to high-tech production.

The Sustainable Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Park aligns with San Jose's growing energy infrastructure, including new transmission lines that boost grid capacity to support artificial intelligence and other future industries. Prologis brings extensive local experience, owning millions of square feet in the South Bay, and aims for construction to start around 2028, with operations by 2030. This development promises high-paying jobs and strengthens our city's role in Silicon Valley's tech ecosystem.

Beyond economic growth, the project could add nearly $30 million yearly to the general fund through taxes and rent, helping stabilize finances without burdening residents. By utilizing excess power capacity, it spreads costs and potentially lowers utility bills for everyone.

Source: The Mercury News

Cadence Boosts San Jose State University's AI Innovation Hub with Key Partnership

San Jose State University has secured a multiyear collaboration with Cadence Design Systems to enhance its upcoming artificial intelligence innovation hub, set to open by summer 2026. This alliance joins efforts from companies like Nvidia and Adobe, positioning the University as a central player in Silicon Valley's tech landscape. Cadence, already present on campus through its IC Design Laboratory, will provide AI design software and digital twin technology, described as virtual replicas that help identify inefficiencies in real-world systems.

The hub aims to serve students across various fields, from engineering and computer science to healthcare and social sciences, allowing them to explore AI applications for practical challenges. For instance, the university's work with the city of San Jose and Nvidia on a digital twin of the city models infrastructure layers, including underground utilities, streets, and buildings, to simulate scenarios like wildfires for better emergency planning. This partnership expands those capabilities, leveraging Cadence's expertise in digital twins to foster innovative problem-solving.

San Jose's broader push to lead in AI includes initiatives like the Plug & Play business incubator, where entrepreneurs develop startups with venture support. As the region's largest public university, SJSU takes on the role of equipping graduates with skills for human-centered AI use, aligning with the city's tech-driven growth. This development not only prepares the workforce but also draws talent to San Jose, strengthening its reputation as an innovation epicenter.

With investments like this, San Jose continues to build an ecosystem where education and industry intersect seamlessly. Students gain hands-on access to cutting-edge tools, while companies like Cadence contribute to community impact while training potential future employees.

Source: SVBJ

Waymo Arrives at San Jose Mineta International Airport!

San Jose Mineta International Airport prepares to welcome Waymo's fully autonomous vehicles, marking a significant advancement in travel convenience for the Bay Area. With authorization now in place, Waymo begins staged rollout starting with employee testing, leading to public commercial service later in 2025. This positions SJC as the first commercial airport in California and the second worldwide to integrate such technology, enhancing the airport's reputation for simplicity and innovation.

Travelers can soon hail a Waymo vehicle through the app upon arrival, with pickups at the Ground Transportation Centers in Terminals A or B. From there, rides extend across the San Francisco Bay Area service area, offering a seamless option for reaching destinations. This development aligns with San Jose's role as the Capital of Silicon Valley, where cutting-edge solutions like autonomous transport improve daily experiences for residents and visitors alike.

The timing supports major 2026 events hosted in the region, providing safe and efficient mobility. Waymo's presence underscores the city's infrastructure strengths and commitment to forward-thinking services, making SJC an even more attractive gateway. As home to a high concentration of tech expertise, San Jose continues to lead in blending hardware and software for practical applications.

On a personal note, I travel frequently and find everything at SJC already takes about half the time as SFO. This will add further convenience and help drive transportation costs lower with more competition. I would expect Tesla Robotaxis won't be far behind. This is a huge win and exactly the direction I was hoping SJC would go to further differentiate itself from other airports in the region.