Santana Row’s Levare Apartments Sold to Global Firm Hines

Santana Row, one of San Jose’s most iconic mixed-use developments, has just witnessed a major transaction. The Levare apartment building, a 108-unit complex within Santana Row, was recently sold to an affiliate of Hines, a global real estate firm. 

The deal, valued at approximately $74 million, marks a strategic move by Federal Realty Trust, the developer and primary owner of Santana Row. By selling Levare, Federal Realty Trust aims to reallocate capital toward higher-return opportunities while continuing to enhance the vibrancy of Santana Row. 

Levare, developed in 2011, has been a standout property within Santana Row, boasting a 95% lease rate at the time of the sale. As one of three apartment buildings in the development—alongside Misora and Santana Heights—Levare has played a key role in shaping Santana Row into a thriving community. The sale to Hines, a firm with a global footprint, signals confidence in San Jose’s real estate market and its potential for long-term growth.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose: The Hotspot for New Grad Hiring and AI Innovation

San Jose is carving out its place as a leader among U.S. cities, topping the charts for new graduate hiring growth. Data from Gusto, a payroll and management software company, shows a remarkable 13.1% rise in the city’s new grad hiring rate from April 2024 to March 2025. 

What’s fueling this surge? A sharp focus on AI is driving both hiring and salary increases across the Bay Area, with San Jose at the forefront. New grads here are seeing starting salaries climb by 7.6% year-over-year, reaching an average of $91,453 as of March 2025. Compare that to the national average of $61,996, and it’s easy to see why San Jose stands out. While hiring for new graduates has dipped nationally—down 16% from 2024 and expected to drop 44% from 2022 levels by mid-2025—San Jose is defying the trend, alongside neighbor San Francisco, thanks to its deep roots in tech innovation.

San Jose State University (SJSU) is a big part of this story. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SJSU is equipping students with the skills to thrive in an AI-driven future. From specialized AI courses to hands-on projects and internships, students are immersed in cutting-edge tech—some even contributing to city initiatives. Partnerships with industry giants like Nvidia and Adobe further amplify these opportunities, creating a direct pipeline from classroom to career. This synergy between education and industry is a key reason San Jose continues to lead.

Beyond the numbers, San Jose offers something unique: a front-row seat to the tech revolution. The city’s position in Silicon Valley means innovation is everywhere, especially in AI. Local businesses using generative AI report higher satisfaction with their hires, which speeds up recruitment and boosts the workforce. For new grads, this translates to not just jobs, but careers with real impact and paychecks to match.

Source: SVBJ

The Boring Company's ZPIT Innovation: A Game-Changer for San Jose's Infrastructure

The Boring Company's recent milestone in achieving continuous mining in a Zero-People-in-Tunnel (ZPIT) configuration is set to revolutionize urban infrastructure, and San Jose stands to gain significantly from this advancement. This breakthrough allows for simultaneous tunnel advancement and ring erection without human presence inside the machine, except for a videographer. Each ring, weighing approximately 24,000 pounds, is constructed efficiently, promising safer, faster, and more cost-effective tunneling. For a city like San Jose, which is constantly evolving and expanding, this technology could be a game-changer.

San Jose's ongoing efforts to enhance its public transportation system, particularly the BART extension to Downtown San Jose, could be accelerated with ZPIT technology. The city's commitment to improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion aligns perfectly with The Boring Company's innovations. By leveraging this technology, San Jose could see a rapid expansion of its underground transportation network, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate the city. This would not only improve daily commutes but also support the city's economic growth by attracting more businesses and talent.

The focus on subterranean technology by The Boring Company complements San Jose's vision of a multi-layered transportation network. This approach could alleviate the persistent issue of surface traffic congestion in the Silicon Valley area by utilizing underground tunnels for both passenger and freight transport. The expansion of such networks would be crucial as San Jose continues to grow, accommodating a larger population and increased economic activities. This innovation could position San Jose as a leader in sustainable urban development, setting a precedent for other cities to follow.

Moreover, the ZPIT configuration's emphasis on safety and efficiency could influence other infrastructure projects in San Jose. Utility tunnels and stormwater management systems, which are essential for the city's resilience, could benefit from reduced risks and costs associated with traditional tunneling methods. This technology could make large-scale projects more feasible, ensuring that San Jose remains at the forefront of infrastructure development. The city's ongoing revitalization efforts in Downtown San Jose, including the Downtown West project by Google, could be further enhanced by these advancements.

Source: X

Free Summer Concerts at St. James Park: 2025 Series Announced

Friends of Levitt Pavilion San Jose is bringing back their beloved free concert series to St. James Park, and the 2025 lineup promises to be a standout season. Running from May through September, this series offers a dazzling array of musical genres—think Afrobeats, blues, country, cumbia, and more—designed to delight every listener. Beyond the music, these events weave together the fabric of our community, blending local flavors, family fun, and a shared love for live performances in one of San Jose’s most iconic green spaces.

The series kicks off on May 25 with a dynamic celebration of Africa Day, co-presented by AWO. Expect an afternoon filled with the infectious rhythms of Riddim Exchange, a Bay Area collective delivering electrifying Afrobeats, alongside the traditional Zimbabwean sounds and dances of the Chinyakare Ensemble. The day starts strong with the Anambra State Cultural Association of Nigeria showcasing the rich heritage of the Igbo people through music and masquerade. This is just a taste of what’s to come—summer highlights include soulful blues on June 1 with Maxx Cabello Jr., psychedelic Latinx funk from Valley Wolf on August 3, and a roots reggae bash featuring Groundation on August 24. With concerts spanning the season, there’s always a new sound to discover.

Bring the family and settle in for a day of enjoyment: kids can dive into tailored activities while adults unwind with a cold drink from the beer and wine garden or savor bites from an array of food trucks. Every event is free and open to everyone, making it an inviting way to spend a weekend in Downtown San Jose.

Each concert is co-presented by local cultural powerhouses like The Fountain Blues Foundation, MACLA, and Needle to the Groove, reflecting San Jose’s diverse artistic spirit. These partnerships elevate every performance and underscore a collective commitment to enriching our city’s cultural landscape. Even more exciting, this series is paving the way for the permanent Levitt Pavilion structure—a future landmark that will amplify San Jose’s reputation as a hub for creativity and connection.

Don’t let this summer pass you by without joining the fun at St. James Park. Head to www.levittsanjose.org for the full schedule and details on how to donate or volunteer to support this incredible initiative. Follow

@LevittSanJose

on social media to catch the latest updates on artists and events.

Alamo Drafthouse to Elevate Silicon Valley’s Movie Experience

Movie lovers in Silicon Valley have something to look forward to this summer. Alamo Drafthouse, the Austin-based cinema chain known for its unique approach to film and dining, is opening two new theaters in our backyard. One will debut at The Village at San Antonio Center in Mountain View on June 16, while the other is slated for Westfield Valley Fair in summer 2025. They are both replacing the recently closed ShowPlace Icon locations.

What sets Alamo Drafthouse apart? For starters, you can enjoy full meals and drinks, including alcohol, delivered right to your seat. The Mountain View theater, clocking in at 50,700 square feet, will offer 10 auditoriums and room for over 1,200 guests, complete with an arcade and a third-floor specialty bar pouring 24 draft beers and cocktails. The Valley Fair location ups the ante with 62,228 square feet, capacity for over 1,500 people, and its own themed bar. Forget the old kiosk system of the previous theaters—these spots are all about comfort, convenience, and a personal touch.

Between the two locations, at least 300 new jobs will emerge. Also, Alamo Drafthouse isn’t stopping at blockbusters—they’re known for screening a wide range of films, from indie hits to special events. In 2024 alone, they showed 1,700 movies nationwide, far more than their closest competitors. This will definitely fill the major hole at Valley Fair after ShowPlace Icon left.

Source: SVBJ

Affordable Housing Takes Center Stage at 1197 Lick Avenue

Local developers, The Core Cos. and Republic Urban Properties, have shifted their plans to prioritize affordable housing at 1197 Lick Avenue. The revised proposal now includes 135 units of affordable housing, a significant increase from the original plan. Located next to Tamien Station, the development offers unparalleled access to Caltrain, Amtrak, VTA, and other public transit options. This prime location means residents can easily commute to work, access essential services, and enjoy the nearby amenities that make San Jose a desirable place to live. The project’s focus on affordability, paired with its transit-oriented design, makes it a standout in the city’s efforts to create housing that works for all.

Designed by Studio T-Square, the development will feature three buildings, each five stories tall, with a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The affordable units are specifically set aside for households earning between 30% and 60% of the area’s median income, addressing a critical gap in San Jose’s housing market. Additionally, the project includes a ground-floor child-care center, which will serve up to 60 students, further enhancing the community’s resources. The pivot to affordable housing was driven by funding opportunities and the desire to deliver a project that meets the city’s most pressing needs.

With median rents soaring to $2,500 and a homeownership rate of just 55%, the city has been grappling with affordability for years. The development at 1197 Lick Avenue is a crucial step toward easing this burden, offering relief to low-income families and individuals who have long been priced out of the market. It also aligns with San Jose’s broader goals for transit-oriented growth, ensuring that housing is not only affordable but also sustainable and connected.

Source: SF YIMBY

Nation’s Giant Hamburgers Flips Back into San Jose with Three New Spots

Nation’s Giant Hamburgers is staging a long-awaited comeback in San Jose, and it’s bringing a triple dose of excitement with three new locations set to open over the next few months. After stepping away from San Jose decades ago, Nation’s is responding to years of local demand, proving that the city’s appetite for their return has never faded. It's actually one of my favorite burger chains and I'm thrilled to see it coming back (the last one I visited was all the way in Lodi).

The new restaurants will land at 5805 Silver Creek Valley Place, 5750 Santa Teresa Blvd., Ste. 5, and 2131 Monterey Hwy., Suite 40, with the Silver Creek spot opening in July and the others following in August. This isn’t the slow rollout Nation’s is known for—typically, they open just one location every few years. San Jose’s size and diversity make it the perfect stage for this ambitious move, ensuring that fans across different corners of the city can get their fix. It’s a thoughtful spread, too, with the company hand-picking sites they believe will thrive, blending instinct with hard data.

What’s especially intriguing is how these locations mark a fresh chapter for Nation’s. They’re embracing a franchise model—something they’ve only started exploring in recent years. The Nation’s team scouted the spots and then teamed up with franchisees to bring them to life, a sign of smart growth that’s also taking them beyond San Jose to places like Elk Grove, Modesto, and Turlock. Yet, San Jose stands out as a cornerstone of this expansion, a city big enough to welcome three outposts at once. 

Source: SVBJ

New Housing Development Brings Modern Living to North San Jose

SummerHill Homes recently snapped up a 4.3-acre site at 210 Baypointe Parkway for $13.5 million, and with a $43.2 million construction loan from Comerica Bank, they’re ready to turn an empty office building into a vibrant residential hub. This development in north San Jose will feature a seven-story apartment building with 292 units and 42 three-story townhomes nearby, breathing fresh life into an underused space.

The apartment building promises to be a game-changer for residents, loaded with amenities that make city living feel like a treat. Expect a pool and spa nestled in a resort-style landscaped courtyard, rooftop decks for soaking in the views, a clubroom perfect for gatherings, and a fitness studio to keep active. Meanwhile, the townhomes offer a roomier option for those who want a bit more space. 

Location is where this project really shines. Sitting right next to major employers in north San Jose, it’s a dream for anyone tired of long commutes. Plus, with traffic being a familiar challenge around here, living close to work feels like a smart win.

What’s happening at 210 Baypointe Parkway is a clear sign of San Jose’s knack for adapting and growing. Swapping out a vacant office for modern residences shows the city knows how to keep up with what its people need. SummerHill Homes sees it as a chance to lift the neighborhood, blending high-quality housing with the surrounding area in a way that feels natural. It’s also tackling the demand for more places to live—both rentals and homes to own—near the heart of Silicon Valley’s job scene.

Source: The Mercury News

New Apartment Complex Breaks Ground at 905 Capitol Avenue

After years of being stuck in the planning stages, a sleek seven-story apartment complex is finally breaking ground, all thanks to the city’s clever multifamily housing incentive program. Led by Hanover Company, this 345-unit development is bringing much-needed homes—including affordable ones.

This project was gathering dust since getting the green light in 2022, held back by financing woes. Then San Jose stepped in with its incentive program, launched late last year, offering developers a lifeline through fee and tax breaks. For Hanover, it was the push they needed. Now, construction is rolling, with a finish line about two years out. The complex will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, with 5% set aside as affordable housing for folks earning the area median income. There’s even 3,000 square feet of office space to spice things up along North Capitol Avenue.

What’s the magic behind this incentive program? It cuts costs in smart ways. Developers who include at least 5% affordable units onsite—like Hanover did—skip the usual “in-lieu” fee tied to the city’s affordable housing rules. Park fees get trimmed for projects with private amenities, and construction taxes take a hit too, with big reductions for the first 1,500 units approved by 2025. It’s a practical move that’s getting shovels in the ground and homes in the pipeline.

The perks don’t stop at housing numbers. This development sits less than half a mile from the Penitencia Creek Light Rail Station, putting public transit within easy reach. And for anyone who loves a good bike ride, the project includes two new bike lanes along North Capitol Avenue, linking up with the Penitencia Creek Trail.

Source: SVBJ

Downtown San Jose’s First Extended-Stay Hotel Opens

Downtown San Jose is about to add another option to it's suite of hospitality options with the grand opening of the Marriott TownePlace Suites. It’s the city’s first extended-stay option, a sleek eight-story building with 175 rooms designed to tackle one of San Jose’s biggest challenges: a tight hotel supply. With only about 4,500 rooms downtown—compared to San Francisco’s whopping 30,000—San Jose has struggled to keep up with demand during massive events like the Nvidia GTC conference, which recently brought over 25,000 visitors to town. This new addition is a $98 million project by local developer Urban Catalyst.

What makes this hotel stand out is its focus on longer stays. Every room comes with a kitchenette, perfect for travelers who want to settle in rather than just pass through. Onsite laundry and a rooftop deck with stunning views add to the appeal, offering a practical yet elevated experience for business folks, families, or anyone sticking around for more than a quick trip. It’s a fresh alternative in a city where hotel options have been limited, often pushing visitors to nearby areas. Now, Downtown San Jose can keep more people in the heart of the action.

The benefits go beyond just the guests. City leaders see this as a win for the local economy, with the hotel expected to pull in around $1 million a year in Transient Occupancy Tax revenue. That’s money that can fuel more growth and improvements in the local community. With big events straining the San Jose's current hotel capacity, this is a step toward hosting even more of them... especially with the Super Bowl and World Cup coming next year.

Source: SVBJ