The San Jose City Council meeting on October 1, 2025, focused on the Gateway Tower project, a significant development aimed at providing affordable housing in downtown San Jose. The project, spearheaded by Core Companies, is set to deliver 220 new workforce housing units, marking it as the only purpose-built affordable housing high-rise in the area.

Chris Veil, president of Core Companies, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting the company's long-standing commitment to San Jose and its downtown. He noted that over 3,000 of the 4,000 homes developed by Core in the city have been deed-restricted affordable housing. Veil emphasized the importance of collaboration with the city and the Santa Clara County Housing Authority in bringing the Gateway Tower to fruition.

Council members praised the project for its potential to enhance the cultural landscape of the South First Area (SoFA) District, which is known for its vibrant arts scene. Council member Torridos acknowledged the project's architectural significance and its strategic location near cultural institutions. He also introduced a memo proposing a tenant preference policy that would prioritize local artists for 10% of the affordable units, aiming to support the local creative economy and ensure artists can live in the community where they work.

Council member Dwan echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for affordable housing not only for artists but also for essential workers like teachers and nurses who are increasingly being priced out of the city. The council unanimously approved the motion to establish the tenant preference system, marking a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive community in San Jose.

The Gateway Tower project is expected to break ground early next year, representing a critical investment in affordable housing and the cultural vitality of downtown San Jose.