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
