San Jose to Erect Giant Burrito Statue and Transform Downtown into Food Truck Paradise

In a jaw-dropping announcement that has set tongues wagging and stomachs rumbling, San Jose has unveiled plans to construct a massive burrito statue smack in the middle of Downtown. But wait, there’s more! The city isn’t stopping at a tortilla-wrapped monument—they’re turning the entire Downtown San Jose area into the world’s largest food truck park.

According to a totally legitimate press release from the city, this burrito behemoth will tower over 260 feet high, adorned with glistening bronze guacamole and salsa details so realistic you’ll want to grab a chip.

The food truck park, dubbed “Foodie Fiesta,” will see Downtown streets overrun with vendors dishing out everything from tacos and pho to sushi and vegan treats. It’s a bold move to celebrate San Jose’s wildly diverse culinary scene and lure food lovers from every corner of the globe.

“We’re convinced this will not only skyrocket tourism but also unite our community through the unbeatable power of food,” declared a city official who absolutely exists and wasn’t invented five minutes ago.

Locals are already losing their minds—in a good way. “I’ve been saying Downtown needs more spice forever, and this is it!” raved one thrilled San Jose resident, practically dancing in the streets.

The best part is that in order to help increase the supply of desperately needed housing, half of the structure will feature 26 stories of micro-apartments, just over 500 units.

Mark your calendars: the burrito statue unveiling and food truck park launch are slated for April 1st, 2026. Everyone’s invited to join the party—just bring your stretchy pants and a hearty laugh.

Now, before you start googling “giant burrito statue permits,” let’s come clean: this is all a big, tasty April Fools’ Day joke. No bronze burritos or food truck invasions are hitting Downtown San Jose (yet!). But here’s the real scoop—San Jose’s food scene is no laughing matter. From the lively bustle of Downtown to the hidden gems tucked in every neighborhood, this city’s got flavors for days. So, this April Fools’ Day, skip the pranks and dive into some of San Jose’s incredible restaurants and food trucks. You won’t find a 260-foot burrito, but you’ll definitely score something scrumptious.

SoFA Block Party Will Feature a FREE Concert with Steve Aoki

On May 13, Downtown San Jose’s SoFA District will transform into the epicenter of excitement as global superstar Steve Aoki headlines a free block party. It’s all happening the day before the San Jose Earthquakes take on Inter Miami CF at PayPal Park—a prelude to one of the Bay Area’s most anticipated soccer showdowns.

This block party, hosted by the San Jose Earthquakes in collaboration with the Urban Vibrancy Institute (UVI) and the City of San Jose, kicks off the 2025 UVI Block Party Series. The series is all about spotlighting what makes our neighborhoods special, and the SoFA District—known for its artsy edge and dynamic energy—sets the stage perfectly. Whether you’re a music lover, a soccer fanatic, or just someone who loves a good time, this event has something for you.

Steve Aoki isn’t just any DJ—he’s a two-time Grammy-nominated powerhouse with nearly 3 billion music streams under his belt. Billboard calls him “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world,” and he’s brought the house down at festivals like Coachella, Tomorrowland, and Electric Daisy Carnival. Now, he’s bringing that same energy to Downtown San Jose, joined by a lineup of talented local artists who’ll showcase the creative soul of our city.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the music. Expect a street scene buzzing with activity—games where you can flex your Earthquakes pride, tasty eats and drinks from local vendors, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow San Joseans.

And then there’s the soccer angle. With the Earthquakes facing off against Inter Miami CF on May 14, this block party is the perfect way to kick off the excitement. “Bringing in a globally renowned artist like Steve Aoki will be a celebration of our community, our fans, and the growing energy around the sport of soccer,” said Earthquakes President Jared Shawlee. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, San Jose is staking its claim as a soccer hub—and this event is proof.

Here’s the best part: admission is free! That said, spots are limited, so you’ll want to RSVP here to lock in your place. Mark May 13 on your calendar, grab your crew, and come ready to dance, eat, and cheer.

San Jose’s Future: A Boring Company Loop to Beat Traffic?

After a painful VTA strike earlier this month that left many that rely on public transit stranded and the realization that BART phase 2 is going to cost $13+ billion and take over a decade, perhaps it is time to start putting some eggs into other long-term transportation options. I'm thinking one in particular that could be a fraction of the cost and deployed in a couple of years.

Imagine skipping San Jose’s traffic jams entirely—zipping from the airport to Downtown in minutes. That’s the promise of a Boring Company Loop, an underground transportation system already working in Las Vegas and coming soon to Dubai. Picture autonomous vehicles whisking you through tunnels, fast and eco-friendly. It could be a game-changer at the right cost structure.

Picture linking the airport, tech campuses, and hotspots like Santana Row and SAP with point-to-point rapid transportation, at a similar cost per user as BART if not less. It could also connect to existing transit hubs to act as a "last-mile" solution.

This fits San Jose’s DNA. We’re a tech hub, a place that embraces the future. A cutting-edge, sustainable Loop screams innovation—putting us on the map as a smart, green metropolis.

It's a long shot, but I would love to see at least a pilot, perhaps starting with linking SJC to Downtown San Jose and Santana Row/Valley Fair.

San Jose’s Green Revolution: Housing and Data Centers Unite for a Sustainable Future

San Jose is gearing up for an exciting transformation, where innovation and sustainability collide in a groundbreaking project set to reshape Downtown San Jose. A dynamic collaboration between PG&E, developer Westbank, and city leaders is bringing eco-friendly housing towers and data centers together, creating a green energy hub that could put San Jose on the map as a global leader in urban innovation.

A Bold Step Toward Sustainability

Imagine a city where excess heat from data centers powers the homes next door. That’s exactly what’s in store at 323 Terraine Street, near San Pedro Square. Westbank, alongside local real estate visionaries, is planning a 345-unit housing tower paired with a data center on a once-vacant lot. “The data center would be in the same footprint as the office building,” said Andrew Jacobson, Vice President of the U.S. for Westbank, noting the shift from an earlier office-focused plan. This mixed-use development, awaiting city approval, aims to break ground by year’s end, delivering both housing and a sustainable energy solution.

The bigger dream? A district energy system connecting multiple housing clusters and data centers across Downtown San Jose. “Our long-term vision is with multiple data centers and housing clusters, the idea is to connect them all and create a downtown San Jose district energy system,” Jacobson explained. It’s a forward-thinking move that could redefine how cities use energy.

Fueling Growth and Innovation

PG&E is all in, preparing for a tech and AI-driven boom in San Jose. “We are preparing for rapid economic expansion, particularly in tech and AI in San Jose,” said Teresa Alvarado, PG&E’s Vice President for the South Bay and Central Coast Region. This project isn’t just about buildings—it’s about powering the city’s future. Bob Staedler of Silicon Valley Synergy agrees, urging swift action: “The city of San Jose needs to expedite the development of this project. The needed housing and revenue to the city makes it a win-win.”

Meanwhile, Plug & Play Ventures is adding to the buzz with plans for an AI Center of Excellence in Downtown San Jose. This hub will nurture startups, partner with San Jose State University for a learning center, and open a public space where “everyone can come look, touch, feel the applications of AI,” said Tevin Panchal, head of growth at Plug & Play. Set to welcome its first startups by April, it’s poised to boost the local economy with a focus on fields like energy, health tech, and cybersecurity.

More on the Horizon

Westbank isn’t stopping here. They’re also converting the historic Bank of Italy tower into housing, blending San Jose’s past with its future. Together, these efforts signal a vibrant evolution for the city—one where sustainability, technology, and community thrive side by side.

San Jose is stepping boldly into a new era assuming these projects get off the ground. It’s not hard to see the city becoming a beacon of green innovation.

Source: The Mercury News

Streets Alive: Join the Fun at VivaCalleSJ 2025

San Jose is gearing up for one of my favorite events of the year! On April 13, VivaCalleSJ will transform miles of city streets into a car-free celebration of community, movement, and fun. This free event invites everyone—whether you’re walking, biking, skating, or just soaking in the vibes—to explore San Jose in a way that’s fresh, active, and full of life.

VivaCalleSJ (pronounced Vee-Va Ka-Ye SJ) shuts down streets to traffic, opening them up for residents to rediscover the city. Imagine strolling through historic neighborhoods, pedaling past local landmarks, or gliding along with friends, all while music fills the air and local art pops up around every corner. It’s a chance to see San Jose’s diversity and energy up close, from Downtown San Jose to hidden gems along the route.

What sets this event apart is how it brings people together. Families, neighbors, and newcomers alike share in the joy of a day built around connection and healthy fun. Local vendors dish out delicious eats, performers keep the energy high, and the best part? It’s open to all, no cost required.

Mark your calendar for April 13, and come experience it for yourself! Bring your crew, pack some snacks, or try something new like skating through the streets. Check out vivacallesj.org for more details.

Santana Row Welcomes New AI Tenants, Boosting San Jose's Tech Scene

Santana Row is welcoming two new artificial intelligence powerhouses to its One Santana West office building. Etched and Securiti.ai have signed leases totaling 60,400 square feet, further adding to Santana Row’s status as a magnet for innovative companies. While most new Silicon Valley office buildings are struggling, One Santana West is already 80% leased.

A Closer Look at the New Tenants

Etched, a company specializing in AI semiconductor chips, has secured 49,500 square feet, taking over the entire second floor of the eight-story building at 3155 Olsen Dr. Meanwhile, Securiti.ai, a firm focused on software solutions for safer AI and data use, has leased 10,900 square feet on the third floor. These deals have pushed One Santana West to 80% leased, according to Federal Realty Investment Trust, the principal owner and developer of Santana Row. With only the fifth floor still available in this 370,000-square-foot space, it’s clear that demand is soaring.

Jan Sweetnam, Federal Realty’s Chief Investment Officer, summed it up perfectly: “Santana West is ideal for companies seeking a modern and efficient workspace and the deepest set of amenities and services available.” The building’s appeal isn’t just about square footage—it’s about offering a dynamic environment where businesses can thrive.

Santana Row: A Growing Hub for Diverse Companies

These new leases are part of a broader trend that’s putting Santana Row on the map as a go-to location for a wide range of industries. Alongside Etched and Securiti.ai, One Santana West is home to an impressive lineup of tenants:

• PwC U.S. Group, a professional services giant, occupies 141,000 square feet.
• Acrisure, a financial tech and insurance firm, leases 29,000 square feet.
• Couchbase, another AI innovator, has 23,700 square feet.
• Calix, a cloud services provider, rents 23,000 square feet.
• Pivot Interiors, a workspace design company, takes up 15,000 square feet.
• BetterHelp, an online therapy platform under Teledoc, leases 10,400 square feet.

Add to that The Good Eating Company, a full-service café operating on the ground floor, and you’ve got a building that’s not just a workplace but a community. The shift in strategy by Federal Realty—moving from seeking a single tenant to offering flexible spaces for multiple companies—has clearly paid off, attracting a diverse mix of businesses eager to call Santana Row home.

Why This Matters for San Jose

The arrival of Etched and Securiti.ai isn’t just good news for Santana Row—it’s a win for all of San Jose. These companies bring high-tech jobs, economic growth, and a fresh wave of energy to our city. The AI surge is breathing new life into the South Bay office market, and Santana Row’s proximity to Stevens Creek Boulevard and South Winchester Boulevard makes it a prime spot for businesses looking to tap into San Jose’s talent pool and vibrant culture.

Beyond the numbers, there’s something inspiring about seeing Santana Row evolve into a place where innovation meets lifestyle. With its array of amenities—dining, shopping, and entertainment just steps away at the main Santana Row strip—it’s no wonder companies are flocking here. As Sweetnam noted, “Santana West delivers on every reason to want to come into the office.” It’s a workplace that feels less like a chore and more like a destination.

Tech at Nite: San Jose’s Techy Night Out Returns!

The Tech Interactive is gearing up for another unforgettable Tech at Nite event on Thursday, April 3rd, from 7:00 to 11:00 PM. This 21+ nightlife experience is the perfect way to explore a different side of San Jose's most techy museum, right in the heart of Downtown San Jose at 201 S. Market St. If you’re looking for a night that blends science, local creativity, and a vibrant social scene, this is it!

Tech at Nite transforms The Tech Interactive into an adults-only playground. Expect a DJ dance party with beats curated by Universal Grammar, hands-on "Science of Spring" activities like crafting with pressed flowers or blending your own botanical scents, and a fermentation workshop with Fox Tale Fermentation Project. Plus, you can sip on local flavors while mingling with makers and innovators from our community. It’s a chance to explore the museum after hours, connect with Downtown’s nightlife, and see why San Jose is a hub of inspiration.

Tickets are $35 online or $45 at the door, with a special $30 rate for college students (just bring your student ID). The first 250 attendees get a free glass of wine donated by San Jose's own J. Lohr Vineyards. Parking is a breeze with $5 validated spots at nearby lots, or hop off the Light Rail at the Convention Center Station steps from the entrance. Start your night here, then wander into Downtown San Jose to keep the fun going!

San Jose shines brightest when we celebrate our unique blend of tech and culture. Tech at Nite is more than an event—it’s a taste of what makes our city special. Grab your tickets and join the party!

Waymo’s Arrival in San Jose: A Glimpse into the Future of Transportation

San Jose is charging toward an electrifying future, and the latest jolt of excitement comes with Waymo’s driverless cars hitting our streets! This groundbreaking move is set to transform how we navigate San Jose and beyond, blending cutting-edge technology with the city’s spirit of innovation. With Waymo’s fleet now approved to operate here, we’re on the cusp of a transportation revolution that promises safer roads, and smoother commutes.

According to NBC Bay Area, Waymo has received approval to expand its driverless car service to San Jose and San Francisco International Airport, marking a significant step forward for the autonomous vehicle company. This isn’t just a win for Waymo—it’s a game-changer for San Jose. Fewer traffic jams clogging up our arteries, a drop in accidents thanks to precision driving, and a ride as easy as summoning an app are all within reach. Plus, with this tech landing here, San Jose is cementing its spot as a magnet for forward-thinkers and thrill-seekers alike.

But hold on—Waymo isn’t cruising solo. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology is accelerating fast, and their robotaxis are revving up to join the race later this year. This friendly rivalry could spark a surge of innovation, pushing both companies to deliver top-notch services and maybe even friendlier fares. For us, that means more choices, greener streets, and a front-row seat to the future of travel.

What’s even more exciting is how this fits San Jose’s big-picture vision. We’re not just a city—we’re a smart city, a global hub where ideas ignite and industries thrive. Waymo and Tesla rolling into town amplify that reputation, drawing tech talent, bold businesses, and curious visitors eager to experience a place where tomorrow happens today.

The last Waymo I took in SF (earlier this month)

Jay Paul's CityView Project: Transforming Downtown San Jose into a Vibrant Urban Hub

Downtown San Jose is still buzzing with potential, and Jay Paul Company’s reimagined CityView project is proof that our city is ready to shine. What started as a massive office development has evolved into something even more appropriate for today—a mixed-use community that swaps out some office space for homes, retail, and a modernized workplace. This shift is a game-changer for Downtown San Jose, and it’s hard not to get pumped about what’s coming next.

A Bold Pivot for a Changing City

Back in 2018, Jay Paul Company had big plans for CityView: three 19-story office towers with 3.4 million square feet of office, retail, and restaurant space. They scooped up the bulk of CityView Plaza for $283.5 million, added adjacent properties for $100 million in 2019, and even grabbed the 19-story 50 West San Fernando Street for $238 million. But last year, they hit pause on the original vision, citing “current financial markets and a reduced demand for office leasing.” Now, they’re back with a plan that’s all about meeting San Jose’s real needs.

“Demand for older Class B and C office space at this site has declined, while the need for housing in San Jose continues to grow,” company President Jay Paul told The Real Deal. “Right now, multifamily development is delivering stronger returns than aging office properties, making residential conversion an attractive proposition.” With this new direction, CityView is set to become a lively hub where people can live, work, and play—all in the heart of Downtown San Jose.

The Village at CityView: Homes with Heart

An existing four-building office campus will be transformed into 320 apartments, ranging from cozy studios to spacious three-bedroom units. That’s The Village at CityView, designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz. It’s not just about adding housing—it’s about building a community. Residents will enjoy shared green spaces, a 10,000-square-foot fitness and wellness center, and a rooftop pool (my personal favorite amenity in any residential or hotel project today). As the company puts it, these features “enhance downtown San Jose’s appeal as a vibrant place to call home.” Who wouldn’t want to live here?

The Tower at CityView: Reaching New Heights

Then there’s The Tower at CityView, a stunning 27-story luxury apartment building at 121 South Market Street. Also designed by SCB, this phase-two addition will offer 360 units—studios to three-bedroom penthouses—complete with rooftop lounges, outdoor terraces with killer city views, and underground parking. It’s the kind of place that makes you proud to call San Jose home, blending style and convenience in one sleek package.

The Shops at CityView: Retail That Rocks

Downtown San Jose is about to get a lot livelier with The Shops at CityView. This 35,000-square-foot retail and restaurant space, designed by DES architects, will sit at Park Avenue and Almaden Boulevard. It’s a perfect complement to the 15,000 square feet of street-level retail in Jay Paul’s nearby 200 Park building, part of which is earmarked for a flagship dining destination. “Downtown San Jose has made a strong comeback,” Paul said, pointing to better foot traffic and nightlife. “Adding more housing will only strengthen the momentum, supporting a 24/7 economy and bringing even more people to the area.” Get ready for eight new spots to eat, shop, and hang out!

150 Almaden: Office Space, Upgraded

CityView isn’t ditching offices entirely. The 15-story, 204,000-square-foot building at 150 Almaden is getting a major glow-up. Think modern building systems, a revamped lobby, and tenant perks like a conference center and fitness center. With three parking spots per 1,000 square feet, it’s ready to rival suburban office parks while keeping that unbeatable Downtown vibe. That much parking won't make urbanists happy, but it will be the perfect spot for San Jose’s high-tech crowd to innovate and thrive.

San Jose’s Future Is Bright

This project isn’t just about buildings—it’s about people. Mayor Matt Mahan sees it as a big win for our city. “People want to live, work and play in the safest big city in the Bay,” he said, calling CityView “groundbreaking” for its ability to help us “reimagine what the capital of Silicon Valley looks and feels like in the age of AI.” With the mayor and city council backing downtown growth—think new investor support, enhanced safety, and faster development processes—CityView is perfectly timed to make waves.

Jay Paul agrees: “We’re long-term owners of the property, and unlike short-term investors or fee-driven developers, our low basis in the property allows us to take a strategic, sustainable approach ensuring solid returns.” That long-term vision means more vibrancy for Downtown San Jose, boosting everything from local businesses to the company’s own properties like 200 Park.

Get Excited for What’s Next

CityView is a chance to help turn Downtown into a place that’s buzzing 24/7. More homes, cool shops, and a modern workspace. That’s the recipe for a city on the rise.

Source: The Real Deal

Santana Row's Exciting New Additions: A Taste of What's to Come

Santana Row, San Jose’s premier destination for shopping and dining, is gearing up for an exciting year with a wave of new stores and restaurants set to open this year. These fresh additions promise to enhance the vibrant energy of this iconic neighborhood, making it an even more irresistible spot for locals and visitors alike.

Kicking things off is Parranga, a Mexico City-style taqueria from the acclaimed Buen Rallo Group, known for gems like Suspiro and El Jardin. Opening its doors on April 1 at 300 Santana Row, Parranga brings a refined yet casual dining experience with its order-at-the-counter setup and a welcoming open-air patio. “Parranga is about bringing an incredibly traditional, Mexico City-style taqueria experience to Santana Row,” says Eduardo Rallo, chairman and founder of Buen Rallo Group. “We believe that great food should be fresh, accessible and above all, authentic – and that’s exactly what we’re offering.” Operating from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays (and until midnight on weekends), it’s set to be one of the earliest and latest dining options on the Row—perfect for breakfast tacos or late-night bites.

Joining the culinary scene is Augustine Cafe and Restaurant, already open and serving up California cuisine with French and Italian flair. Operated by the seasoned Bacchus Management Group, this spot adds yet another layer of flavor to Santana Row’s diverse dining lineup.

On the retail side, Santana Row is rolling out a stylish array of new stores. Kohler brings cutting-edge kitchen and bath design, while Bluemercury caters to beauty lovers with top-tier cosmetics. The Collective offers unique furnishings, and Evereve has taken over the ground floor of the former H&M space with its chic women’s clothing. Sézane, another women’s fashion boutique, rounds out the lineup. Meanwhile, Vuori is expanding its athletic-wear showroom next to Evereve, tapping into the active lifestyle vibe that’s thriving in San Jose.

Federal Realty Investment Trust, the masterminds behind Santana Row, see these developments as a sign of the city’s strength. “San Jose is thriving,” says Christian Irwin, Federal Realty’s vice president of West Coast leasing. “The demand for great retail is alive and well.” This growth isn’t just about new shops—it’s a reflection of Santana Row’s winning formula, blending restaurants, retail, housing, and offices into a bustling community hub.

From savoring authentic tacos at Parranga to browsing the latest fashion at Sézane, Santana Row’s newcomers are set to make 2025 a standout year!

Source: SVBJ, The Mercury News