San Jose Expands Community Care with New Facility on Union Avenue

The San Jose Planning Commission recently gave the green light to a Conditional Use Permit for a 1.77-acre site on Union Avenue, between Byron Way and Cambrianna Drive. This approval paves the way for a brand-new residential care facility—a project that promises to enhance the city’s ability to support its community while adding a touch of architectural charm to the neighborhood.

The facility, spanning 48,051 square feet, will rise as a two-story building designed by Douglas Pancake Architects. Its California mission-style look, complete with a tan and brown stucco facade, will fit right in with the area’s vibe. Inside, it’s set to offer 94 resident beds and employ a staff of 42, creating both a nurturing space for those in need and new job opportunities for locals. Fortunately, the nearby Casa di Mir Montessori School will stay untouched.

As San Jose continues to expand, facilities like this are vital for keeping up with the needs of a diverse population. The design team emphasized creating a warm, inclusive environment. Douglas Pancake Architects, known for their thoughtful designs across the region, deserve a nod for shaping a space that’s more than functional—it’s inviting. 

With 17 trees being removed to make way for construction, the trade-off feels worth it when you consider the long-term impact.

Source: SF YIMBY

Voyager Craft Coffee Brews Up a New Chapter in Downtown San Jose (Including an Underground Jazz Club)

Located at 111 W. St. John St., this 4,500-square-foot café, complete with a patio, is breathing new life into a space that sat empty for five years after Scott’s Chowder House closed in 2020. The new shop is a feast for the senses, blending eye-catching design with the rich aromas of freshly roasted coffee and homemade pastries. It’s a welcome addition that’s already drawing crowds eager to enjoy its unique vibe.

Step inside, and you’re hit with a burst of color—multi-colored benches and chairs line the space, while an abstract mural of Brazil stretches across the front wall. Another mural, a heartfelt tribute to the owners’ late three-legged dog Margie, adds a personal touch to the décor. Beyond the visuals, Voyager is all about the craft. They roast their own coffee, whip up milks and syrups in-house, and bake pastries fresh every day. Fan favorites like the Tokyo and Valencia lattes—nodding to the owners’ global adventures—pair perfectly with treats like raspberry oat bars, strawberry conchas, and pull-apart muffins.

The excitement doesn’t stop at coffee. Tucked beneath the café is a 900-square-foot lounge that the owners are transforming into a jazz club. Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy live jazz in an intimate setting, maybe even with a glass of wine if their beer and wine license comes through. They’re also planning to enclose part of the patio for live music, comedy acts, and more, shining a spotlight on Downtown San Jose’s talent and culture. 

This isn’t just a spot to grab a latte, it’s an unofficial expansion of the San Pedro Square Market to the other side of the street. Voyager’s team is set on creating a space where people connect, creativity thrives, and the city’s spirit shines. It's open today, but mark your calendars for the ribbon-cutting on May 30. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a jazz fan, or just someone hunting for a lively hangout, Voyager’s latest venture has you covered.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose's Cinco de Mayo: A Fiesta of Culture and Community

San Jose’s streets transform into a vibrant showcase of color, music, and flavor every Cinco de Mayo, and 2025’s celebration on Sunday, May 4, promises to be no exception. This annual event commemorates Mexico’s triumph over French forces in 1862, but in San Jose, it’s also a joyful celebration of community and diversity. From the lowrider parade rolling down King Road to the lively festival at Emma Prusch Farm Park, the day offers a perfect blend of tradition and local pride that makes this city so special.

The festivities begin with a parade from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where lowriders cruise along King Road from Alum Rock Avenue to Story Road. Once the parade wraps up, the party moves to Emma Prusch Farm Park for a free festival running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Families can enjoy food vendors, artisan booths, and more lowriders on display, while live performances from artists like Alfonso Salazar, Analyn, and The Jams fill the air with energy. With around 15,000 attendees expected, it’s a day that truly brings San Jose to life.

Organized by the United Lowrider Council of San Jose, it’s a grassroots effort that unites volunteers, local businesses, and performers to honor Mexican heritage. The event welcomes everyone—longtime residents and newcomers alike—to join in the dancing and savor authentic cuisine.

Source: SJ Today

Goodwill Outlet’s Grand Opening: Affordable Shopping Arrives in San Jose

San Jose is welcoming a unique addition to its retail scene on May 2nd, as Goodwill of Silicon Valley opens its first-ever outlet store at 1685 Tully Road. This isn’t your typical shopping experience. Picture bins overflowing with clothing, housewares, books, furniture, and electronics, all priced by the pound for unbeatable deals. It’s a treasure hunt for thrifters, resellers, and anyone who loves a bargain, all kicking off with a grand opening celebration at 10:00 a.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will bring together local leaders like San Jose City Councilmember Bien Doan (District 7), TREBA Board Chair Christina Bui, and Goodwill of Silicon Valley CEO Christopher Baker, alongside staff and excited shoppers. This event marks more than just a new store—it’s a chance for the community to rally around Goodwill’s mission of empowering people through job training and career opportunities. Expect a lively atmosphere as hundreds dig into the bins, hunting for hidden gems while supporting a worthy cause.

For more information on how the Goodwill Outlet Stores work, watch this short video.

Downtown San Jose’s Tech Renaissance: A New Era Begins

A massive new tech campus, known as Platform 16, is set to rise near the banks of the Guadalupe River, just steps from Google’s future transit village. Developed through a partnership between Boston Properties and TMG Partners, this project will introduce 1.1 million square feet of modern office space to the heart of the city. The scale and ambition of Platform 16 mark a significant moment for Downtown San Jose, signaling a future where innovation and urban life intersect in powerful ways.

The strategic location of Platform 16 amplifies its potential. Positioned near Google’s proposed transit village, the campus is primed to become a central hub within a growing tech ecosystem. This proximity could spark a ripple effect, drawing more companies, talent, and investment to the area. The sleek, modern design of the campus will also enhance the city’s skyline, adding a fresh visual element to the urban core. Downtown San Jose stands to gain a dynamic focal point that could inspire collaboration and creativity among tech giants and startups alike.

Beyond its physical presence, Platform 16 has the power to reshape Downtown San Jose on a broader scale. As tech companies deepen their roots, demand for amenities, dining, and entertainment options will likely surge, breathing new energy into the district. It might also pave the way for upgraded infrastructure and public spaces, making this part of Downtown San Jose more welcoming for residents and visitors. 

San Jose’s unique position in Silicon Valley makes it an ideal home for this ambitious campus. The city offers a rare mix of urban energy and suburban accessibility, setting it apart from other tech-heavy regions. With Diridon Station nearby, Platform 16 will connect seamlessly to the Bay Area, making it a convenient base for workers. This combination of location, scale, and forward-thinking design positions the project as a cornerstone of San Jose’s future growth.

Source: SiliconValley.com

780 Reasons to Celebrate: San Jose's Bold Move for Affordable Housing

San Jose is making waves with an ambitious project in the Alviso district, right next to the lively Topgolf venue. A development team is set to construct 780 affordable homes on a 3.2-acre site at 7 Topgolf Drive. This massive undertaking promises to ease the Bay Area's housing crunch, offering a fresh start for families seeking affordable options in a city known for its high costs. What’s more, the project leans on innovative construction techniques to deliver these homes faster and more efficiently than ever.

The secret weapon behind this development is the builder’s remedy, a state law that helps developers sidestep local zoning hurdles when they dedicate at least 20% of their units to affordable housing. Here, all 780 homes will be affordable, paving the way for a swift approval process. Los Angeles-based LH Housing is spearheading the effort, collaborating with city planners to ensure this game-changing project moves forward without delay.

Partnering with LH Housing is Cloud Apartments, a Bay Area company bringing modular construction to the table. These factory-built apartments snap together on-site, slashing both time and expense. It’s a clever approach that could redefine how affordable housing takes shape in San Jose, proving that innovation and necessity can go hand in hand.

City planners are fully engaged, working side by side with the developers to bring this vision to life. North San Jose, a thriving job hub, stands to benefit immensely from this influx of housing. Experts emphasize the value of placing affordable homes near employment centers, cutting commute times and boosting quality of life for residents.

The site itself tells a story of transformation. Once earmarked for an entertainment district with restaurants and hotels, those plans faded away. Now, this land is poised for a new purpose—housing that meets a critical need. Alongside a nearby data center complex, it signals a shift toward practical, community-focused development in Alviso.

With 780 homes on the horizon, San Jose is tackling the housing crisis head-on, blending affordability with smart design. If this project succeeds, it could light the way for similar efforts across the region.

Source: The Mercury News

Ellore Opens in Santa Clara, Offering Luxury High-Rise Senior Living

Ellore, a luxury senior living community located in The Clara District has welcomed its first residents. Ellore is tailored for the generation that fueled Silicon Valley’s rise. With 176 residences offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care, this community brings a fresh approach to senior living right in our backyard.

Ellore stands out with its sophisticated design and top-tier amenities. The interiors feature warm wood tones, elegant marble, and calming neutral hues, creating a welcoming environment. Residents can enjoy a rejuvenation spa, an outdoor saltwater plunge pool, a fitness center, a penthouse lounge, and even a state-of-the-art movie theater on the 20th floor. The pool is one of only two in Silicon Valley that are located on the penthouse floor of a high-rise building. Executive Chef Kevin Vu leads the culinary program, offering delicious meals at The Summit Room and drinks at Clara’s Bar and Lounge. It’s a place where comfort meets elegance, designed with Silicon Valley’s trailblazers in mind.

The location adds to its appeal. Ellore sits in a lively, walkable neighborhood with stunning views of Silicon Valley's natural landscapes, including the Alviso salt ponds and foothills. It’s close to dining, parks, and transit options, making it easy for residents to stay connected to the broader Bay Area. Developed by Related California and managed by Oakmont Management Group, Ellore is raising the bar for what senior living can be in our region.

This opening is a win for the Silicon Valley area, showcasing how our communities continue to evolve and cater to every stage of life. For those in San Jose looking for a luxurious, supportive option for themselves or loved ones, Ellore is worth a visit. For more information, head over here.

New Medical Facility Approved for Willow Glen

In a landmark decision, the San Jose Planning Commission has unanimously approved the transformation of a Willow Glen office building into a state-of-the-art inpatient care facility for mental health. This new center will provide critical support for up to 48 patients battling conditions like eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. It’s a forward-thinking step that tackles a pressing community need while giving new purpose to underutilized urban space. 

The pandemic left San Jose with a surplus of empty office buildings, but this conversion highlights the city’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities. By reimagining vacant offices as vital community assets, San Jose is blending innovation with a deep commitment to its residents’ well-being. This project reflects a broader trend of cities rethinking urban spaces to meet modern demands.

Change can spark concerns, and some Willow Glen neighbors had questions. Yet, the city’s thoughtful planning ensures the facility will blend seamlessly into the area. Patients will be transferred in rather than arriving as walk-ins, creating a calm, healing environment with minimal disruption. This balance of community needs and mental health care underscores San Jose’s knack for listening and finding solutions.

Source: SF YIMBY

San Jose’s Summer of Sound: Free Concerts to Light Up St. James Park

St. James Park is about to come alive with the 2025 Levitt San Jose concert series! This season promises eight incredible nights of free live music, transforming our Downtown San Jose' St. James Park into a celebration of sound and community. Leading the charge is Suzanne St. John-Crane, the new Director of Strategy for Levitt San Jose. With her deep experience in non-profits and passion for cultural equity, she’s steering this initiative toward something truly special—a chance for everyone to enjoy music, connect with neighbors, and revel in our city’s vibrant spirit.

Kicking off on May 25 with Africa Day featuring Riddim Exchange’s pulsing Afrobeat rhythms, the series spans genres like blues with Maxx Cabello Jr., country vibes from Cash’d Out, and a Roots Reggae Bash headlined by Groundation. There’s even a Psychedelic Latinx Night with Valley Wolf and a Cumbia Celebration led by Bululú. Every concert is free, family-friendly, and paired with food vendors and local artists, making St. James Park the place to be from May through September. It’s an open invitation to dance, unwind, and soak in the creativity that defines our city.

What makes this series stand out is its heart. Levitt San Jose is about bringing people together and reclaiming public spaces for joy. The events reflect a commitment to inclusivity, showcasing talents and traditions from across the globe right here in our backyard. Plus, it’s a win for Downtown San Jose’s economy. Live music draws crowds that spill into local restaurants and shops, boosting small businesses with every note played. As Levitt San Jose works toward a permanent Pavilion, these concerts are laying the foundation for St. James Park to shine as a year-round hub.

So, grab a blanket, round up your crew, and mark your calendars for a summer of unforgettable nights. The 2025 Levitt San Jose concert series is more than a lineup—it’s a movement to make music a cornerstone of our city’s life. Head to www.levittsanjose.org for more details.

San Jose’s Urban Village Vision: 474 New Affordable Homes on South Bascom Avenue

As part of San Jose’s Urban Village plan, a new development promises to transform a sleepy lot into a lively, walkable hub where with easy access to public transportation. The Urban Village plan anchors San Jose’s 2040 Envision Plan, targeting areas like the South Bascom site for a bold shift toward medium to high-density growth. It’s all about crafting neighborhoods where daily life doesn’t hinge on a car.

Crafted by b9 Architects, this project at 1099 South Bascom Avenue will deliver 474 affordable housing units, a major win for accessibility. The design leans hard into sustainable living, offering just 191 parking spaces but a generous 457 bike stalls. It’s a clear nod to a future where pedals outpace pistons. The site, currently home to a Round Table Pizza and a vacant storefront once occupied by Kelly-Moore Paints, will shed its underused past for a vibrant new chapter. The developer is even pursuing a density bonus to pack in more units, amplifying the project’s reach.

This isn’t a standalone effort—San Jose is riding a wave of transformation. Across Santa Clara County, underutilized parcels are morphing into large affordable housing developments, and South Bascom Avenue is a standout in this trend. By embracing the Urban Village model, San Jose is sculpting a city that’s sustainable, dynamic, and open to all.

Source: SF YIMBY