April 23, 2025

A Big Night for Affordable Housing at San José’s Planning Commission

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Earlier this month the San Jose Planning Commission unanimously approved two 100% affordable housing projects—Gateway Tower and PATH Villas at Buena Vista—bringing over 300 new affordable homes to San José.


Image: Alison Cingolani at San Jose Planning Commission meeting

On April 9th, the San José Planning Commission unanimously approved two 100% affordable housing developments: Gateway Tower in Downtown and PATH Villas at Buena Vista in the West San Carlos Urban Village. Together, these projects will bring over 300 new affordable homes to areas where they’re needed most.

Both projects leveraged tools like SB 330 and the State Density Bonus Law to move forward, and both reflect a strong commitment to affordability, transit access, and thoughtful design.

CORE’s Gateway Tower

  • A 15-story mixed-use building bringing 220 affordable units and 3,320 sq. ft. of commercial space to the urban core. The project preserves the historic façades of the Herrold College building and includes interpretive exhibits that honor San José’s radio history. Approved after an appeal hearing, Gateway Tower used 2 concessions and 7 waivers through the Density Bonus Law to make the project viable.

PATH Villas at Buena Vista

  • Located on a 0.56-acre site recently annexed from Santa Clara County, this project will provide 94 affordable homes for households earning below 30%–60% of area median income, plus 1,800 sq. ft. of commercial space and over 9,000 sq. ft. of open space. The Planning Commission approved multiple actions to move it forward, including annexation, rezoning, a General Plan amendment, and site development permit. The project used 4 concessions and 8 waivers to overcome zoning barriers and meet its affordability goals.

We appreciate the Planning Commission’s thoughtful consideration and strong support for both of these projects. Their votes are a clear signal that San José is serious about meeting its housing goals with projects that serve the community. SV@Home will be closely watching as Gateway Tower begins construction, and we’ll be ready to support PATH Villas when it heads to City Council in the coming weeks.