New Transportation Options Enhance Mobility in East San Jose

New East San Jose initiatives are catering to those without cars, offering affordable alternatives that promote active lifestyles. With expansions in bikeshare and the introduction of on-demand microtransit, the city demonstrates a focus on accessibility that benefits everyone from daily commuters to families running errands.

The Bay Wheels bikeshare program, operated by Lyft, expands into East San Jose this summer. This move links areas like Mayfair and Alum Rock to Downtown San Jose and the Berryessa BART Station, creating seamless routes for work, school, or leisure. Eligible residents can access an annual membership for just $5, with each ride costing $1, making it a practical choice for short trips that also encourage outdoor activity and reduce traffic congestion.

Launching in late fall, the Pa’Lante microtransit pilot provides on-demand rides in an all-electric fleet for two years. Users book corner-to-corner service through an app or phone, with door-to-door options available for seniors, parents with young children, and individuals with disabilities. Fares match VTA rates, including free transfers, and vehicles accommodate wheelchairs and bikes to support combined travel modes.

Additional resources round out these offerings, such as the Clipper START program for 50% discounts on Bay Area transit for income-qualified riders. Youth and seniors benefit from similar reduced fares, while those with disabilities can use the Clipper Access card. The VTA Summer Youth Pass allows unlimited rides for those 18 and under during summer months, further easing movement around the city.

For more information: https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/7117/4765

SJC Takes Flight with a Fresh Food Scene: New Dining Options Coming Soon

San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) is gearing up to make your travel experience tastier than ever. According to a recent press release, SJC is introducing a new generation of airport retail and dining, featuring a fresh lineup of food options that will delight travelers. This exciting update promises to transform the airport into a culinary hotspot, reflecting the vibrant spirit of San Jose.

The press release highlights that SJC is collaborating with top concessionaires to bring a diverse range of dining experiences to the terminals. Whether you’re dashing to your gate or savoring some downtime before takeoff, these new offerings will cater to every taste. From quick, grab-and-go bites to sit-down meals that feel like a treat, the focus is on quality and variety.

The plan is to bring 12 fresh retail concepts, including cafés and grab-and-go spots bursting with local goodness. Every single grab-and-go food item will be sourced right here in Santa Clara County. From artisanal treats to quick bites, travelers will savor the authentic tastes of our region. Hudson is bringing gems like Sweetdragon Baking Company (San José) and Mike & Niki’s Honey Company (Campbell) to the table, alongside the San José-based Nirvana Soul Café. Meanwhile, Paradies Lagardère will dish out delights from local favorites like Greenlee’s Bakery (San José) and Nokki Farm (San José), ensuring every bite tells a story of our community.

This foodie revolution is more than just a treat for your taste buds—it’s a boost for San José’s small businesses and a warm welcome for visitors. As San José Mayor Matt Mahan perfectly said, “By putting the spotlight on small businesses and local foods, we ensure that travelers from around the world experience the unique identity of San José from the moment they arrive.” With big events like the Super Bowl and World Cup 2026 on the horizon, there’s no better time to showcase our city’s culinary heart.

SJC’s Director of Aviation Mookie Patel added, “This new retail program will bring some of the best of San José and our region into our terminals.” And with all this local flavor, the airport expects to generate at least $4.8 million annually to support operations—a tasty win for everyone! Whether you’re grabbing a coffee from Daybreak Coffee (San José) or a sweet treat from Ginger Lab (Santa Clara), you’ll feel the pulse of San José in every bite.

Tech enthusiasts will also get a unique Google shop-in-shop features and merchandise only available at SJC. It'll be among the first airports in the nation to feature merchandise directly from Google. As a frequent flier, I'm looking forward to the new eateries and shops!

Caltrain's switch to electric is already paying off

Caltrain's electric trains are a hit with riders. The electrification project involved swapping out Caltrain's Diesel trains for brand new electric units that are quieter, accelerate faster, and are more comfortable.

In October 753,000 passengers took Caltrain, a 54% year-over-year increase. Saturday and Sunday ridership have risen even more dramatically. Saturday ridership is up 169% and Sunday is up 142% year-over year. That finally brings Caltrain ridership above pre-COVID19 levels.

While their top speed is the same, the acceleration allows for more frequent stops while simultaneously reducing route times. The train can now go between San Jose and San Francisco in less than an hour. Unlike BART it also has restrooms and 2nd floor with a nice view.

If you haven't tried out the new service yet, now's a great time to see the latest and greatest in Bay Area public transit.

Source: SFGATE

SJC is finally getting nonstop service to Washington DC

When it rains it pours. Earlier this week Frontier announced they are coming back to San Jose with five nonstop routes. Now, it looks like Spirit Airlines is launching one of San Jose's most requested routes of all time.

San Jose is one of the few big cities without a direct connection to DC. Given how important AI, semiconductors, and technology in general are to the United States--this makes no sense. Fortunately, Spirit Airlines is working on a nonstop flight to Ronald Regan Washington National Airport (DCA).

If it goes through, it will be the only low-fare airline option between Silicon Valley and Washington DC. The route is currently pending approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

I fly quite a bit but have yet to experience Spirit Airlines. That will be changing very soon. I knew they were categorized as an "ultra-low-cost" airline that slots below Southwest, but I didn't realize just how inexpensive they could be. You can book a business-class-sized seat to Vegas from SJC for less than the Southwest fare on several dates. If you are travelling light, the cheapest option can be half the cost of Southwest--which I already thought was pretty reasonable.

Source: SVBJ

SJC regains an airline and five more nonstop routes

San Jose Mineta International Airport had some pretty big news yesterday. Frontier Airlines is returning to San Jose! It's always exciting to get a new airline, or in this case regain one. Frontier previously flew to San Jose in 2018 and 2019.

Frontier will add five daily nonstop routes this summer in two parts. Service to Denver and San Diego begin on July 22nd. Service to Las Vegas, Los Angeles (LAX), and Phoenix begin on August 13th. It also looks like they have a code-sharing agreement with Volaris for flights to Guadalajara, Mexico.

I'm happy with any addition of flights to San Jose, but all five of these routes already exist at SJC. Actually, all of them have not one but at least 2-4 other airlines flying those routes. Competition does means lower prices and more departure/arrival time options. Also, Frontier is an ultra-low cost carrier like Spirit Airlines, so their prices are already low to begin with. They even have some flights as low as $19 to promote the launch of the new San Jose service.

If they are successful with their initial offering, hopefully they will bestow some new nonstop routes as well.