New Affordable Housing Project on The Alameda in San Jose

A new affordable housing project takes shape near Downtown, offering a beacon of hope amid the city’s ongoing housing challenges. As reported by The Mercury News, this development is more than just a collection of apartments—it’s a bold move to make San Jose a more inclusive, thriving place to live.

What sets this project apart is its use of advanced construction techniques, which could pave the way for faster, more cost-effective housing solutions across the region. The units are built offsite leveraging modular construction, and then assembled like LEGOs at the final construction site. The apartments are tailored to low-income residents, featuring a variety of unit sizes to accommodate different families and individuals.

The project will come in at seven stories and include 120 parking spaces, some of which are below ground. Amenities would include a rooftop deck, gym, and a lounge area.

Beyond the homes themselves, this project promises a boost to San Jose’s economy. Construction will generate jobs, and once residents settle in, local businesses near Downtown are likely to see increased foot traffic and spending. This ripple effect underscores how affordable housing isn’t just about shelter—it’s about strengthening the entire community. San Jose’s growth as a tech and innovation hub depends on its ability to support all its residents, and developments like this help make that vision a reality.

This effort fits into a broader wave of progress in San Jose. From workforce housing to mixed-use projects, the city is embracing creative solutions to meet its housing needs. Partnerships between developers, city leaders, and community groups are driving these initiatives forward, proving that collaboration can yield real results. As San Jose evolves, it’s carving out a reputation as a city that balances ambition with accessibility—a place where opportunity isn’t just for the few, but for everyone.

San Jose Powers Up: PG&E’s Microgrid Funding

Starting April 3, PG&E opened the second wave of its Microgrid Incentive Program (MIP), offering a hefty $36 million to fund clean-energy microgrids in disadvantaged Bay Area communities.

As PG&E explains, these localized energy systems can operate independently during power outages, ensuring that critical facilities like hospitals, fire stations, schools, and even grocery stores stay powered up when it matters most. With clean-energy options like solar, battery storage, and even small hydroelectric projects, this initiative isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about doing it sustainably.

The application window, which runs through May 30, 2025, invites communities to dream big. In the first wave of funding, PG&E awarded up to $43 million to nine North Bay projects, with grants ranging from $1 million to $6 million each.

For those ready to get involved, PG&E has made it straightforward: visit www.pge.com/mip for details or submit your project ideas directly to communitymicrogrids@pge.com by the May 30 deadline. As the nonprofit partner shaping San Jose’s parks and civic spaces since 1996, we’re thrilled to see investments like this that uplift our neighborhoods.

Celebrate Dance and Community at sjDANCEco's Spring DANCE Festival in San Jose

This April, sjDANCEco is bringing the joy of movement to the forefront with their annual Spring DANCE Festival at Eastridge Center. This free, two-day celebration is part of Bay Area Dance Week, and it’s an invitation to everyone—locals, visitors, dancers, and dreamers—to experience the vibrant arts scene that makes San Jose so special.

A Weekend of Dance for All

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 12 Noon to 5:00pm. Held at Eastridge Center Mall (2200 Eastridge Loop, San Jose, CA 95122), this festival transforms the main level into a stage for dozens of choreographers and dance groups from across the Bay Area. Whether you’re there to watch or to join in, there’s something for everyone.

The schedule is packed with excitement. Starting at 1:30pm, professional dance groups will perform 15-minute segments every half-hour, showcasing styles that range from contemporary and hip-hop to traditional African and Mexican folk dances. Want to try it yourself? Free dance classes kick off every hour on the hour, offering a chance to step into the rhythm and connect with others. It’s all free, open to all ages, and a perfect way to spend a spring weekend.

A Showcase of Talent and Diversity

The festival lineup is a dazzling reflection of the Bay Area’s cultural richness. You’ll see performances from professional companies like HH Lin Dance Company, Los Lupeños de San José, Latizmo Hip Hop Productions Dance Company for All Abilities, and N’fungola Sibo African Dance and Drum. These groups bring a mix of precision, passion, and inclusivity to the stage, celebrating the many voices that shape our region.

Beyond the pros, dance groups from cities like Campbell, Hollister, Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Manteca, and Walnut Creek will also perform. From young kids taking their first leaps to seasoned dancers, the festival highlights the talent and heart of communities near and far. It’s a beautiful reminder of how dance unites us across generations and geographies.

A Highlight of Bay Area Dance Week

This isn’t just a San Jose event—it’s a cornerstone of Bay Area Dance Week (April 25 - May 4, 2025), a regional celebration of movement. As the San Jose Mercury News once put it, “Among the most notable participants is sjDANCEco, which turns its Bay Area Dance Week event into a full-blown San Jose celebration.” This festival shines a spotlight on the diversity and dynamism of our local dance community, making it a must-see for anyone who loves the arts.

Meet sjDANCEco

At the heart of it all is sjDANCEco, a San Jose-based contemporary dance company that’s been igniting the spirit of dance for over two decades. Known for producing world premieres and presenting a mix of contemporary, classic modern, and American Modern Dance masterpieces, they’re a year-round force in the arts. This festival marks the kickoff of their 21st season, a milestone that underscores their deep roots and commitment to our city.

Come Join the Fun

The Spring DANCE Festival is more than just performances—it’s a chance to connect. Bring your friends, your family, or just yourself, and head to Eastridge Center. Catch a show, try a class, or simply soak in the energy of a community coming together through dance. The stage is easy to find on the main level of the mall, so swing by between shopping or make it your weekend destination.

This event thrives thanks to supporters like San Jose Downtown, Applied Materials, SVCreates, City of San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs, Rotary Club of Los Gatos, City of San Jose, Leo M. Shortino Family Foundation, Eastridge, and Mission College Santa Clara. Their backing keeps the arts alive and accessible in San Jose.

Your Invitation Awaits

Don’t miss out on April 26 and 27, 2025. Want more details? Check out sjDANCEco’s website.

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk April 2025

South FIRST FRIDAYS is back this week with exhibits across multiple galleries in three different districts. Everything is open from at least 5-9pm. Participating venues include ANNO DOMINI, the Institute of Contemporary Art, KALEID Gallery, Works San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, the SoFA Market, MACLA, Art Ark Gallery, MACHU PICCHU, San Jose Jazz, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery.

It all goes down on Friday, April 4th. As usual admission is free and all ages are welcome. Click here for a preview of featured art! Below is a map with all of the galleries to check out across three different districts.

Blooming Legacy: Celebrating 30 Years of the Heritage Rose Garden in Downtown San Jose

In the heart of Downtown San Jose, a hidden gem has flourished for three decades, blending history, community, and the timeless allure of roses. The Heritage Rose Garden, a cornerstone of our city’s botanical legacy, is marking its 30th anniversary this spring with a celebration that promises to delight and inspire. On Saturday, April 5th, 2025, from 10:30am to 12:30pm, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy (GRPC) invites you to join in the festivities—a vibrant tribute to a space that’s as much about people as it is about petals.

Since its planting in March 1995, the Heritage Rose Garden has grown into the largest public rose collection in the Western hemisphere, boasting over 2,600 varieties and 2,700 planted roses. What began as a muddy, rain-soaked effort by over 750 volunteers has blossomed into a city-block-sized oasis, with rose varieties donated from gardens worldwide. As Elizabeth Loretto, GRPC Board President, beautifully states, “The Heritage Rose Garden is a testament to the community champions, local heroes, and the culture of volunteerism that shaped San Jose and the history of the Guadalupe River Park.”

The anniversary event, held at 438 Coleman Ave., San Jose, CA 95110, is designed for all ages. Expect local music filling the air, delicious catered treats from Smashing Dishes, and rose-bodied activities that bring the garden’s story to life. You’ll hear from elected officials like Supervisor Betty Duong and San Jose District 6 Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, alongside former District 3 Councilmember David Pandori, long-time volunteers, and GRPC leaders. Want to get your hands dirty? Join the volunteer workday at 9:30am before the main event, or mark your calendar for the weekly volunteer sessions every Saturday from 8:30-11:30am. It’s a chance to connect with the soil and soul of San Jose.

This celebration isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a rallying cry for the future. The GRPC is spotlighting the ongoing needs of the Heritage Rose Garden and Guadalupe River Park, from better irrigation to more park rangers. Recent upgrades like restored signage, a refreshed storage shed, and new trellises show what’s possible when the community comes together. Jill Perry captures this forward-looking pride: “We are so proud of what we have accomplished in the last 30 years, and still believe in its potential. It’s more important than ever that public support for the Heritage Rose Garden is strengthened and unwavering.”

Thanks to supporters like bXp, Applied Materials, and Western Digital, this event is blooming with possibility. You can even pre-order a limited-edition commemorative poster to take home a piece of the celebration. For all the details—event info, poster pre-orders, or how to volunteer—head to www.grpg.org.

Celebrate San Jose’s Vibrant Culture at San Jose Day 2025

San Jose is a city alive with creativity, diversity, and community spirit—and there’s no better way to soak it all in than at San Jose Day! Join us on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM at Emma Prusch Farm Park for a free, family-friendly celebration that captures the essence of our city. This year, the event aligns with Viva CalleSJ’s 10th anniversary, doubling the fun and making it a day you won’t want to miss. Ready to dive into the heart of San Jose? Let’s explore what’s in store!

A Tradition Rooted in Community

San Jose Day kicked off back in 2017 as “408 Day,” a scrappy little gathering that’s since grown into one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. Over the years, it’s evolved from a quick idea into a polished festival, even earning a Commendation from the City of San Jose for its role in uniting residents. Organized by Spark Community Productions—a woman-owned 501(c)(3) nonprofit—this event shines a spotlight on local talent and the cultural richness that defines our city. It’s a testament to how San Jose keeps growing, connecting, and thriving.

What’s Happening at San Jose Day 2025?

Held at Emma Prusch Farm Park, a lush oasis with wide-open spaces and a warm, welcoming vibe, San Jose Day 2025 promises a lineup that’ll delight attendees of all ages. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Live Art and Music: Local artists and musicians will fill the park with energy, showcasing San Jose’s creative pulse through performances and hands-on art experiences.
• Food Galore: From food trucks to local vendors, you’ll taste the flavors that make San Jose a culinary standout—think everything from comfort classics to bold new bites.
• Classic Cars: Car enthusiasts will love the display of vintage rides, a nod to the city’s deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
• Family Fun: With activities designed for kids and adults alike, it’s a day the whole family can enjoy together.

Best of all? It’s completely free! San Jose Day opens its arms to everyone, proving that the city’s best experiences don’t need a price tag.

Pair It with Viva CalleSJ

On the same day, Viva CalleSJ celebrates its 10th year by turning 6 miles of streets—from Downtown San Jose to the East Side—into a car-free adventure. Walk, bike, or skate your way through vibrant neighborhoods, then cap off your journey at San Jose Day. It’s a fantastic chance to explore the city’s dynamic streets before settling into the festival’s welcoming atmosphere at Emma Prusch Farm Park.

Why San Jose Day Matters

This isn’t just another event—it’s a celebration of the people who make San Jose special. From the artists pouring their hearts into their work to the families coming together under the sun, San Jose Day reflects the city’s diversity, resilience, and forward momentum. Whether you’ve called San Jose home for decades or you’re just passing through, this day will leave you with a renewed love for our community and all it has to offer.

So, grab your loved ones, charge up your excitement, and head to Emma Prusch Farm Park on April 13th. Visit sanjoseday.org for more details, and let’s celebrate San Jose together!

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