Urban Catalyst Downgrades Housing Vision in Downtown San Jose

Urban Catalyst is updating their dual high-rise proposal into two eight-story residential buildings. The project shifts from earlier office and housing concepts to focus solely on apartments, delivering 626 units across sites at 147 E. Santa Clara St. and 95 N. Fourth St. This adaptation uses wood-frame construction for efficiency and cost reduction, allowing the development to progress amid economic realities while addressing the city's housing needs.

The first phase targets the corner of East St. John and North Fourth streets near St. James Park, replacing an empty commercial property. The second phase follows at East Santa Clara and North Fourth, currently a Chevron gas station that may operate a few more years. Each building includes about 300 units and incorporates ground-level commercial and retail space along East Santa Clara Street, enhancing street activity in the area.

Leveraging Senate Bill 330 for streamlined approvals, the development requires around $300 million in investments, with costs per building estimated at $130 million to $150 million. This approach prioritizes feasibility and speed to combat the housing shortage.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose’s Skyline Soars: Urban Catalyst’s Game-Changing Project at West San Carlos and Josefa

Urban Catalyst, a powerhouse in local real estate development, is leading the charge with a project that’s set to transform Downtown San Jose’s landscape—and we’re here for it.

Picture this: an eight-story marvel rising proudly near the southern edge of Google’s proposed Downtown West neighborhood. This isn’t just any development—it’s Aquino @ Downtown West, a 272-unit apartment complex designed to tackle our housing needs while adding a sleek, modern touch to the city. With construction permits expected by the third quarter of 2025 and a potential completion date within a couple years, this project is a beacon of progress for San Jose residents and newcomers alike.

What’s so thrilling about Aquino? For starters, it’s a bold step toward easing the Bay Area’s housing crunch. With a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, this development promises to welcome over 300 residents into the heart of Downtown.

But it’s not just about homes. This project’s location is a dream for anyone who loves the idea of a connected, walkable city. Just steps from Diridon Station and a stone’s throw from the SAP Center, Aquino sits at the crossroads of transit and entertainment. Plus, with Google’s ambitious Downtown West plans nearby, this corner of San Jose is poised to become a hotspot of innovation and activity. It’s the kind of place where you can hop on a train, catch a Sharks game, or stroll to a trendy new café—all without needing a car.

Urban Catalyst isn’t stopping here. They’ve already broken ground on the nearby Keystone, a 176-room Marriott TownePlace Suites hotel that’s slated to open its doors by summer 2025. Together, these projects weave a narrative of growth and opportunity, proving that San Jose is ready to shine as a destination for living, working, and playing.

Urban Catalyst received $6.1 million in interim funding last year to help push Aquino forward while the developer seeks full construction financing. The total cost of the project is expected to be $120-130 million.