UPDATE: San Jose has just approved a significant housing project near the Cupertino border, allowing the construction of a seven-story complex that will add 118 new apartments to the area. This decision, made last week, is part of a broader effort to address housing shortages in Silicon Valley, and construction is expected to begin as early as 2026.
The new development, located at 1000 S. De Anza Blvd., will transform a currently vacant 2,658-square-foot commercial building into a modern residential complex featuring 44 studios, 42 one-bedroom apartments, and 32 two-bedroom units. Of these, 24 units will be available at below-market-rate rent, targeting individuals earning 80% of the area’s median income, which is approximately $109,320 for a single occupant in 2025.
Local developer Borello Asset Management submitted the project under the Builder’s Remedy process, which allows for fast-tracked approvals in areas with housing shortages. This move comes after the city’s housing element fell out of compliance with state requirements, enabling Borello to lock in policies that favor development. City project manager Alec Atienza confirmed that the zoning for the site typically does not permit housing unless certain conditions are met, but the Builder’s Remedy process supersedes these restrictions.
However, the project has not been without controversy. Residents near the site, particularly those from the Ventana Place Homeowners Association, have raised concerns about potential construction noise and vibrations that could impact the integrity of their homes. Becky Bender, president of the association, stated, “If the ground sinks or settles due to excessive vibrations… the integrity of the post-tension slab at Ventana could be compromised.”
In response, Borello’s land-use consultant, Erik Schoennauer, reassured the community that the environmental impact report included specific measures to mitigate noise and vibration. He emphasized that the city’s long-term planning envisions more intensive use along major corridors like De Anza Boulevard, stating, “The city’s plan is that a street like De Anza will be all seven stories someday.”
The approval of this project aligns with San Jose’s ongoing initiatives to tackle the housing crisis, a critical issue in the Bay Area. As housing demand continues to surge, the city is under pressure to deliver more residential units to accommodate its growing population.
Developers and city officials are now looking to the future, as the project is projected to take approximately 14 months to complete once construction begins. With community sentiments divided, the coming months will be crucial for addressing residents’ concerns while moving forward with development plans.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as San Jose continues its efforts to expand housing availability in the region.
