How SJSU Reimagines Housing in the Heart of Silicon Valley

Development will take time, robust private-sector partnerships and sizable private and public capital investment will be required to deliver this priority project in coming years. In the interim, growing vibrancy around Alquist provides ample opportunity for short-term, mixed-use activations with local merchants, artists and performances, potentially in the building, on the Paseo and in nearby vacant storefronts. With only 2.7% of San José zoned for multi-family housing, a project of this magnitude, when eventually built, establishes SJSU as a leader in developing an equitable housing market for families and young adults aspiring to call San José home long-term.

While SJSU's unique geography presents affordability challenges, our region's promise lies in collaboration and innovation. Leveraging our partnerships, ones we have already established and others to be fostered, is our next horizon. Our regional problems on housing affordability require bold and creative solutions. Together we can pursue possibilities that reinforce SJSU's standing as the Epicenter of the Future and make life better for those who make Silicon Valley the beautiful place we all call home.

This article is part of the Silicon Valley Business Journal "Elevate" series, focused on positive institutional, corporate and organizational impact in downtown San José. Contributions from Traci Ferdolage, Senior Associate Vice President for Facilities Development and Operations; Michelle Smith McDonald and Marcus Ismael, Marketing and Communications.