San Jose has officially approved permits for a seven-story housing project at 1000 S. De Anza Blvd., located near the city’s western border with Cupertino. The development will add 118 apartments to the area, with construction expected to begin in early 2026 and take approximately 14 months to complete.
The project, initiated by Borello Asset Management, aims to transform a 0.72-acre site previously occupied by a commercial building into a modern residential complex. This initiative comes under the state’s Builder’s Remedy process, which allows developers to bypass certain zoning restrictions in areas where local housing policies fail to meet state compliance.
According to land-use consultant Erik Schoennauer, the existing single-story commercial building on the site has become an inefficient use of land. “Redeveloping the property makes sense for the neighborhood and for the city,” Schoennauer stated, emphasizing that the new multi-family apartment building aligns with the city’s urban development goals.
The approved housing complex will feature a mix of units, including 44 studios, 42 one-bedroom apartments, and 32 two-bedroom apartments. Notably, 24 of the units will be offered at below-market rates, priced at 80% of the area’s median income, which is estimated to be $136,650 for a single person in 2025.
Further complicating the approval process, the project received some pushback from local residents. Concerns were raised regarding potential construction noise and vibrations that could impact nearby homes. Becky Bender, president of the Ventana Place Homeowners Association, expressed worries about the structural integrity of surrounding buildings, stating that excessive vibrations could lead to catastrophic failures.
In response to these concerns, Schoennauer noted that the environmental impact report mandated specific measures to mitigate noise and vibration disturbances. He asserted that the vibrations from the construction would unlikely affect the nearby townhome buildings. Despite the potential height and density of the new structure, Schoennauer reiterated that the city’s long-term plans envision increased development along major commercial corridors, including De Anza Boulevard.
San Jose’s approval of the project reflects a broader commitment to addressing the housing crisis in the region, which has faced significant demand. As the city continues to adapt its policies to facilitate new developments, the Borello project stands as a significant step towards increasing the availability of residential spaces in an area that has long been characterized by a shortage of affordable housing options.
The completion of this project will not only enhance the local housing landscape but is also expected to contribute to the economic vitality of the area, drawing in new residents and fostering community growth.
