UPDATE: San Jose has just approved a significant housing project that will add 118 new apartments near the city’s border with Cupertino, a move aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis. The project, located at 1000 S. De Anza Blvd., is expected to begin construction as early as 2026 and will include 24 units designated for below-market rates, offering much-needed affordable housing options.
This ambitious seven-story complex, proposed by Borello Asset Management, will replace a currently vacant 2,658-square-foot commercial building that once housed Mori Kitchen. Erik Schoennauer, a land-use consultant for the developer, emphasized the necessity of this project, stating, “The current use of the property is an inefficient use of land that does not benefit anybody.”
The approval comes under the state’s Builder’s Remedy process, which allows developers to bypass certain local restrictions if the city is not compliant with housing mandates. San Jose’s housing element was not in compliance when Borello submitted its application in June 2023, locking in favorable conditions for development.
The new residential complex will consist of 44 studios, 42 one-bedroom apartments, and 32 two-bedroom apartments. With the area’s median income for a single person estimated at $136,650 in 2025, the 24 affordable units will be offered at 80% of the area’s median income, providing crucial support for lower-income residents.
Despite the project’s potential benefits, it has not been without controversy. Nearby residents have voiced concerns regarding construction noise and potential vibrations affecting their homes. Becky Bender, president of the Ventana Place Homeowners Association, warned that excessive vibrations could compromise the structural integrity of nearby buildings, leading to catastrophic consequences. “The ramifications would not only endanger lives but also result in astronomical repair costs,” she stated.
In response, Schoennauer reassured concerned citizens that the environmental impact report contains measures to limit noise and vibrations during construction. He noted that the city’s long-term plan supports increased density along major commercial corridors, asserting, “The city’s plan is that a street like De Anza will be all seven stories someday.”
As San Jose pushes forward with its housing initiatives, this project represents a critical step towards addressing the city’s affordable housing shortage. With the construction timeline projected to take about 14 months, the community will soon witness significant changes in the area.
Residents and city officials will be closely monitoring the project’s development. The next steps involve finalizing construction plans and addressing any further concerns from the community. The urgency of creating more housing options remains a priority for San Jose as it navigates the complexities of growth and development in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
