New Law Sparks Growth Opportunities Near San Jose Transit Stations

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 79 into law, setting the stage for increased residential density around transit hubs in eight California counties, including Santa Clara. This measure, authored by State Senator Scott Wiener, enables developers to construct taller and denser housing projects within a half-mile radius of qualifying rail stops, bypassing some local zoning limits. For San Jose residents, this opens doors to more vibrant neighborhoods where living close to public transportation becomes easier and more appealing.

The law targets counties with over 15 passenger rail stations, a threshold Santa Clara County meets with its extensive network of BART, Caltrain, and VTA light rail options. Projects under SB 79 must include affordable units if they exceed a certain size, ensuring broader access to housing. This approach addresses California's housing shortage by prioritizing development in areas already served by efficient transit, which could reduce reliance on cars and ease traffic congestion in the South Bay.

Details of the upzoning vary by transit type. Around Tier 1 stops like BART and Caltrain, buildings can reach up to nine stories near the station entrance, seven stories within a quarter mile, and six stories out to a half mile. For Tier 2 stops, such as light rail lines, the heights are slightly lower, topping out at eight stories adjacent to the stop. These provisions apply to sites zoned for residential, mixed-use, or commercial purposes, provided they meet density and affordability criteria.

San Jose stands to benefit greatly from this initiative, fostering communities that blend urban convenience with sustainable living. As the city expands its transit infrastructure, including extensions to key areas, SB 79 supports a future where more people can call San Jose home without sacrificing accessibility or adding to traffic gridlock. The result could be a more lively cityscape that showcases San Jose's potential as a leader in smart urban development.

Source: SVBJ

Spooky Lights Live! Brings Eerie Thrills to San Jose's Theater Scene

San Jose's City Lights Theater Company is set to transform the stage into a haunting haven this October with Spooky Lights Live! later tonight. This fresh take on eerie short plays steps out from its audio origins and into a live setting, offering residents a chance to experience spine-tingling short stories up close. Written by local talent Lauren Doyle, the event draws on the city's creative energy, showcasing narratives that blend the strange with the familiar in ways that resonate with South Bay audiences.

Attendees can look forward to a staged reading featuring a skilled cast, including Kim Scofield, Kyle Smith, Vanessa Alvarez, Alycia Adame, Arturo Montes, and Gwynnevere Cristobal, under the direction of Dave Leon. The evening includes complimentary snacks, drinks, and festive party favors to keep the atmosphere lively. A costume contest adds to the fun, inviting everyone to dress up and compete for prizes, turning the night into a communal celebration of Halloween's theatrical side. These plays, titled Lights, Remains of the Night, Remember Me, Six of Spades, The Red Halloween, and Valentine, promise a mix of chills and delights that highlight San Jose's growing reputation for innovative arts. Recordings will be available later on Filament.

Lauren Doyle's earned a B.A. in Art History & Visual Culture with a minor in Theatre Arts at San Jose State University, graduating with with top honors in 2012.

For more info and tickets, head over here.

Aldea Home & Baby Lands in Willow Glen

Willow Glen is welcoming the first expansion of Aldea Home & Baby. This San Francisco-based retailer, specializing in baby gear and home furnishings, has settled into a spacious 4,800-square-foot spot at 1123 Lincoln Avenue. The store stocks everything from car seats and strollers to toys, apparel, and stylish home items, making it a go-to destination for families and design enthusiasts alike. With its roots in the Mission District since 2005, Aldea brings a curated selection that fits seamlessly into Lincoln Avenue's lineup of beloved local shops like Three Sisters and Mariette's Chocolates.

What sets this store apart is its focus on hands-on experiences for customers. Shoppers can take advantage of free demonstrations for strollers and car seats, along with personalized consultations that last anywhere from half an hour to two hours. These sessions help parents navigate choices for nurseries, registries, and everyday needs by letting them interact directly with products. In a city Forbes recognized in 2024 as the top spot for small businesses, Aldea's approach fosters that entrepreneurial spirit, drawing in community support from neighboring merchants even before the doors opened.

Looking ahead, Aldea's ambitions reflect the entrepreneurial energy pulsing through San Jose. CEO Johanna Bialkin envisions expanding to 50 locations over the next five to 10 years, starting along the West Coast and reaching into major East Coast cities. This growth mirrors the booming baby products market, projected to hit $475 billion globally by 2030. As a corporate-owned site with franchising potential, the Willow Glen location positions San Jose as a key player in this expanding industry, inviting more families to come and discover one of our city's most welcoming neighborhoods.

Source: SVBJ

Poppy & Claro Debuts All-Day Dining in Downtown San Jose

A new spot for all-day meals arrives in Downtown San Jose with the opening of Poppy & Claro at 50 West San Fernando Street, right next to the San Jose Museum of Art. This restaurant fills a hole once occupied by the members-only Capital Club, which closed in December 2024. It's a welcoming venue open to everyone from office workers to museum visitors. Set to launch on Thursday, October 16, it will operate from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, complete with a social hour from 4:30 p.m. onward featuring reduced prices on drinks. The concept draws in locals and visitors alike, adding to the growing list of accessible dining options that highlight the city's evolving food scene.

The menu centers on hearth-fired creations blending California freshness with New York-style influences, especially in the pizzas. Morning selections include drip coffees and espressos from Sightglass Coffee, alongside teas and specialty beverages like matcha spritzes or the signature Claro with espresso, milk, toasted black walnut syrup, and black walnut bitters. Pastries from Manresa Bread complement dishes such as soft scrambled eggs with roasted maitakes and crushed avocado on toast, breakfast sandwiches, chilaquiles, breakfast burritos, and granola parfaits topped with toasted black walnuts. For later in the day, options range from seasonal rotating pizzas to standouts like the Truffle Shuffle with maitake and crimini mushrooms in truffle-garlic crema, or the Hot Rosa featuring red sauce, salami rosa, burrata, pistachio, Calabrian chile, and hot honey.

Chef Christopher Littman, hailing from Brooklyn, oversees the kitchen and brings a lifelong passion for pizza that began at age nine. His experience includes a pandemic-era pizza pop-up where he perfected recipes now showcased in the hearth oven. Savory highlights extend to items like seared Dijon-dill salmon, herb and garlic chicken, chile-glazed wings with fried Thai basil, flatbreads served with hummus, garlic toum, and green goddess dips, plus hearth-baked chocolate chip cookies. Burgers, salmon club sandwiches, and caramelized onion grilled cheese round out the offerings, with desserts featuring soft serve optionally enhanced by black walnut and brown sugar streusel. Beverages include California wines, local beers, and cocktails such as the Welcome Trolley made with lemongrass tequila, pineapple gomme, lime, absinthe, and sparkling wine.

This addition strengthens Downtown San Jose's appeal as a hub for diverse crowds seeking quality meals throughout the day. By emphasizing local partnerships and seasonal ingredients, Poppy & Claro contributes to the area's vibrancy, making it easier for residents and professionals to enjoy fresh, inventive food without leaving the neighborhood. As San Jose continues to expand its culinary landscape, establishments like this one invite more people to discover the dynamic energy of the city core.

Source: Eater SF

Gateway Tower Rises: Affordable High-Rise Housing Approved for Downtown San Jose

Over $38 million in loans has been approved for the Gateway Tower project, a 15-story building set to bring 220 affordable units to the SoFA District at 470 South Market Street. Developed by Core Cos., this marks the city's first purpose-built high-rise for workforce housing in Downtown San Jose. The shift to a fully affordable model addresses long-standing financing hurdles and aligns with efforts to meet housing needs amid economic pressures. With construction potentially starting in March 2026 and wrapping up in about two years, the tower promises to add vital residences to the urban core.

The project reserves 120 units for extremely low-income households, with rents starting at $1,055 for studios and reaching $1,567 for three-bedrooms. Another 98 units target households earning between 50% and 70% of the area median income, offering rents from $1,758 for studios to $2,611 for three-bedrooms, plus two manager units. Public funding, including an additional $25 million from the county, totals over $63 million to make this possible. Such investments highlight San Jose's dedication to creating accessible living options that support diverse communities, including artists who contribute to the local creative economy generating nearly $300 million annually.

Downtown San Jose will gain a new landmark that enhances its southern gateway, blending modern design with proximity to arts and cultural spots. City leaders emphasize how the tower will strengthen the area's character and help retain talent in Silicon Valley.

sfyimby.com

Meeting Tomorrow For Gateway Tower, Downtown San Jose - San Francisco YIMBY

Source: The Mercury News

Tony Dimaggio's Pizza Reopens on Monterey Road

Tony Dimaggio's Pizza will officially reopen today at 3852 Monterey Road. This family-owned spot, a staple since 1977, overcame a roof fire in July 2024 that led to an 11-month closure. Now back in business since June 2025, the restaurant invites the community to its formal celebration on Thursday, October 9, starting at 11:30 a.m. Remarks from Councilmember Bien Doan, representatives of the Monterey Corridor Business Association, and owner Jack Dimaggio will highlight the event, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. As the city gears up for the restaurant's 50th anniversary in 2027, this milestone underscores the resilience of local businesses that define San Jose's character.

The signature stromboli at Tony Dimaggio's stands out as a unique offering, featuring ham, Italian sausage, salami, mustard, American cheese, and mozzarella cheese, all encased in pizza dough and finished with butter, oregano, black pepper, and homemade tomato sauce. Founded by Tony and Anna Dimaggio, who relocated from the East Coast drawn by the area's mild weather and orchard landscapes reminiscent of Sicily, the restaurant introduced this dish to San Jose locals unfamiliar with it at the time. Today, the family continues the tradition, with Jack, his wife Dimitra, brother Tom, and even their 80-year-old mother still involved in daily operations. Their dedication reflects the strong community ties that make San Jose's neighborhoods thrive.

Monterey Road itself serves as the southern gateway to the city's urban core, stretching from Alma Avenue to Capitol Expressway and supporting around 1,500 businesses and 11,000 jobs. From breweries and retail stores to major employers like Maxar Space Satellites, Sim's Metal, Capitol Drive-In, and The Plant shopping center, this corridor pulses with economic activity. Last year's establishment of a Business Improvement District, led by the Monterey Corridor Business Association in partnership with city staff, allows business owners to pool resources for enhancements like street cleaning, security, and marketing.

Scott's Social Club: Elevating Networking in Downtown San Jose

Scott's Social Club will perched on the seventh-floor rooftop at 88 South Fourth Street. This private club steps in to address the gap created by the closure of the Silicon Valley Capital Club earlier this year, offering a space where entrepreneurs, business leaders, and elected officials can gather. The opening mixer on October 15 marks the start, inviting members to enjoy stunning views while building relationships that drive the city's economy forward. With membership starting at $150 per month and options for young professionals, corporate groups, and nonprofits, the club makes networking accessible in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Regular events form the core of the experience, including mixers held twice a month featuring local wineries, distilleries, and breweries. A monthly dining event adds variety, complemented by perks such as discounts at Scott's Seafood and validated parking. Organizers plan to expand benefits through partnerships, potentially including deals at golf courses and spots in the Las Vegas area. This setup encourages meaningful interactions, helping members forge deals and collaborations that strengthen San Jose's innovative community.

Four specialized councils focus on young professionals, LGBTQ individuals, women, and business interests, allowing tailored programming and events. A share of membership dues supports local nonprofits, providing them platforms to connect with potential donors. Already, over 200 people have signed up for the first mixer, with early memberships reaching about 30 shortly after launch. The goal of 250 members reflects confidence in the club's role within Downtown San Jose..

Source: SVBJ

Agrihood Evolves: Townhomes Set to Enhance Sustainable Living Near San Jose

steinberghart.com

Santa Clara Agrihood - Steinberg Hart

The Agrihood development in Santa Clara continues to adapt with plans for 44 for-sale townhomes at 1816 Worthington Circle, replacing an earlier concept for a 160-unit apartment building. This change reflects responses to economic shifts like higher interest rates and construction costs that emerged after the pandemic. The Core Companies aims to keep the project moving forward by focusing on ownership opportunities that align with the community's needs. Located near Westfield Valley Fair Mall, this site sits on the edge of San Jose, offering a fresh way for people to experience integrated urban farming and modern housing in Silicon Valley.

The first phase of Agrihood opened in 2023 with 165 affordable apartments for seniors, complete with a 1.7-acre urban farm open to residents and neighbors. This setup promotes healthy living through access to fresh produce and communal spaces that encourage interaction. The new townhome proposal builds on that foundation, featuring five three-story buildings designed to maintain the walkable layout and farm integration. Such features make the area appealing for those seeking a balance between city convenience and natural elements, drawing more families and professionals to the region.

As of late September 2025, the project remains under review by the City of Santa Clara, with permits submitted starting in June. Pending approval, construction could begin later this year, filling a vacant parcel and adding to the housing options available.

steinberghart.com

Santa Clara Agrihood - Steinberg Hart

American Airlines Ramps Up for Super Bowl LX at San Jose International Airport

San Jose Mineta International Airport prepares for a major influx as American Airlines announces an expansion of operations by up to 450 percent ahead of Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The stadium sits less than a 10-minute drive from the airport, making it a convenient entry point for fans traveling from across the country. This boost includes eight new routes connecting San Jose to key cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York JFK, Charlotte, and Miami. Such enhancements position the airport as a vital gateway, drawing visitors to experience the excitement of the big game while showcasing the region's accessibility.

Flight frequencies vary by route during the peak period from February 5 to 10, with options like seven daily flights to Dallas-Fort Worth and multiple connections to Chicago and Phoenix. This setup accommodates the surge in demand, ensuring smooth travel for attendees. As the fourth-largest carrier at the airport, serving half a million passengers in 2023, American Airlines builds on its presence behind Delta, Alaska, and Southwest. The move aligns with San Jose's growing role in hosting major events, inviting more people to discover the area's blend of sports, technology, and community energy.

Besides location, recent developments at the airport also boost its appeal. That includes the introduction of Waymo robotaxis, being the first in California to offer such services for rideshares. While the departure of Spirit Airlines marks a change, officials anticipate minimal impact on overall operations.

flyusa.com

Source: SVBJ

Rock 'n' Roll San Jose: 20 Years of Rhythm and Speed in Silicon Valley

Course Overview | Rock 'n' Roll San Jose runrocknroll.com

The Rock 'n' Roll Running Series is taking over the streets on October 4 and 5. Thousands of runners from near and far gather to experience the thrill of racing through the city known as Speed City USA. With options like the half marathon, 10K, 5K, and even KiDS ROCK for the younger crowd, the event welcomes everyone from seasoned athletes chasing personal records to newcomers eager to join the fun. The flat courses make it accessible and fast, blending urban landscapes with touches of natural beauty that highlight what makes San Jose special.

Live bands and DJs stationed along the route turn the run into a moving concert, where every step syncs with upbeat tunes and cheers from enthusiastic crowds. Downtown San Jose comes alive with this fusion of music and motion, creating an atmosphere that captures the city's innovative spirit. Runners weave through familiar neighborhoods, fueled by the support of local fans and cheer squads that line the sidewalks. This setup not only boosts performance but also fosters a sense of community, reminding participants why San Jose stands out as a place where people connect through shared passions.

Marking its 20th anniversary, the event pays homage to San Jose's rich track heritage from the legendary San Jose State teams of the 1960s. Elites and everyday runners alike appreciate the PR-friendly paths that have drawn top talent over the years. As the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose uses occasions like this to showcase its blend of technology-driven progress and down-to-earth vitality. The celebration extends beyond the finish line, leaving lasting memories and inspiring more people to explore the city's dynamic side.

runrocknroll.com

Rock 'n' Roll San Jose | Rock 'n' Roll Running Series

For those looking ahead, the presale for next year's event is already open, offering a chance to lock in spots at great rates while supplies last. Whether you're lacing up for the first time or returning for another go, Rock 'n' Roll San Jose embodies the city's commitment to health, entertainment, and togetherness. For more info and tickets, head over here.