New 737-Unit Housing Project Boosts North San Jose's Growth

San Jose has greenlit a major residential development that will bring 737 new homes to a long-vacant site in North San Jose. This multi-phase project from Valley Oak Partners turns nearly 10 acres between River Oaks Parkway, Iron Point Drive, and Cisco Way into a vibrant community. With proximity to key tech employers like Cisco, Intel, and Broadcom, the development supports the area's role as an innovation center by providing housing options close to work.

The project features a seven-story building with 505 market-rate apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. A separate five-story structure will house 132 fully affordable apartments, available at up to 80 percent of the area median income for Santa Clara County. Additionally, 100 for-sale townhouses in 14 three-story buildings will offer variety for families and individuals looking to put down roots.

This approval comes as San Jose works to meet its goal of 62,200 new housing units by 2031, despite past challenges with permitting and construction costs. North San Jose stands out with several large-scale projects advancing, including the Facchino Family's mixed-income neighborhood near the BART station and Hanover Company's Coyote Creek Village, which will add nearly 1,500 homes.

Community feedback shaped the final plans, leading to preserved redwood trees where possible and public improvements like enhanced crosswalks, wider sidewalks, and contributions to bike lanes on Cisco Way. These elements address concerns about pedestrian safety, traffic, and greenery, ensuring the development integrates well with the neighborhood.

Source: The Mercury News

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

Martha Gardens Breaks Ground: Boosting Housing Options in San Jose

San Jose celebrates another step forward in expanding its residential landscape with the recent ground-breaking of the Martha Gardens project at 802 South First Street. This development promises to add 166 new units to the city's inventory, blending market-rate and affordable housing in a prime location near the I-280 overpass. As construction begins, residents can look forward to a fresh infusion of living spaces that support the growing needs of families and individuals alike.

Among the highlights, 18 units cater to very-low-income households at or below 50 percent of the area median income, while 15 more serve low-income residents at or below 80 percent. These provisions make homeownership and renting more attainable for a broader segment of the population. The Pacific Companies, led by dedicated professionals like John Nicolas, spearhead the effort, demonstrating a commitment to thoughtful urban growth.

Designed by AO Architects, the 83-foot-tall structure spans 164,660 square feet in a podium-style layout. Features include 1,510 square feet of retail space, parking for 90 vehicles and 43 bicycles, plus a nearly 10,000-square-foot courtyard for outdoor gatherings. Such elements create inviting environments that encourage community interaction and daily convenience.

Positioned close to Downtown San Jose and the vibrant SoFA creative district, Martha Gardens promotes a walkable lifestyle that lessens dependence on cars. This accessibility aligns with the city's push for sustainable living, allowing tenants to easily connect with cultural spots, dining, and transit options. Funding secured through an agreement with PNC National Bank in June 2024 helped overcome challenges, paving the way for timely progress.

Source: SF YIMBY