San Jose Council approves Sharks Way street renaming and affordable housing project funding

The San Jose City Council convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, focusing primarily on housing development and a proposed street renaming.

The meeting began with updates on ongoing housing projects in the city. Council members expressed appreciation for the rapid progress on two construction projects in the district, which are expected to yield approximately 600 housing units. Council Member Candelas highlighted the importance of these developments, noting that San Jose had seen no market-rate multifamily construction starts in 2024. The council discussed the urgency of these projects and the potential for further extensions of deadlines in September, depending on the pace of development.

The council then moved on to a significant action item regarding a loan commitment for a new affordable rental housing development known as the Ariasa project. This initiative, part of the transit-oriented development plan, aims to provide 195 all-affordable housing units. The project is strategically located near a BART station and is expected to receive substantial funding from various sources, including a $9.9 million construction loan and additional grants for infrastructure improvements. The council expressed enthusiasm for this project, emphasizing its alignment with the city’s long-term housing goals.

Public comments were invited, with speakers expressing strong support for the affordable housing initiative. Alex Shore, Executive Director of Catalyzed Silicon Valley, praised the project for its density and proximity to transit, while Julia Garasimenko from Transform highlighted the project's sustainable design, which minimizes parking to reduce costs and emissions.

The final agenda item involved a proposal to rename segments of West Saint John Street and North Almaden Boulevard to "Shark's Way." This renaming aims to enhance connectivity between downtown San Jose and the SAP Center, fostering a more pedestrian-friendly environment. The council discussed the implications of the renaming and the outreach conducted to inform affected property owners. The proposal received unanimous support from the council, with members acknowledging the cultural significance of the Sharks organization in the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to addressing housing needs and enhancing urban connectivity. The council plans to continue discussions on housing developments in September and looks forward to the positive impacts of the newly approved projects and street renaming.