VTA Unveils Initial Concepts for Santa Clara Transit Oriented Communities Plan

The Station Area Task Force meeting held on August 21, 2025, in Santa Clara focused on the development of transit-oriented communities (TOC) around the VTA site. Melissa Sterezzo, the transit-oriented communities program manager at VTA, expressed gratitude to the task force and city staff for their commitment to the station area plan. She highlighted VTA's role in securing federal funding and emphasized the importance of creating vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that integrate living, working, and recreational spaces within a 15-minute radius of transit stations.

Sterezzo introduced her colleagues from VTA, including Robert Swirk, who is part of the land use and development review team, and Christina Nape, who participated virtually. The discussion underscored VTA's commitment to transit-oriented development, which aims to create mixed-use, mixed-income projects on VTA land near transit hubs. This initiative is part of a broader vision to enhance community engagement and ensure that development aligns with local needs.

Swirk followed Sterezzo's remarks by sharing reflections on preferred concepts discussed in previous meetings. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of city staff and the task force, reinforcing the importance of partnership in advancing the station area plan.

The meeting set the stage for future discussions and investment opportunities in transit-oriented development, with VTA eager to continue engaging with the community to shape the neighborhood's future.