Santa Clara Transit Authority Unveils Groundbreaking TOD Housing Project for Community Development.

Rendering of new residential buildings next to Santa Clara VTA light rail station, showing integration of housing and transit

In a recent article I read, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) marked a major milestone in its long-term vision for integrating transit and housing with the grand opening of its first transit-oriented development (TOD) housing project in more than 20 years. Located next to the Tamien Light Rail and Caltrain stations in San José, the Tamien Station Apartments deliver 135 modern, affordable homes directly connected to two major regional transit services. Affordable to individuals and families earning less than 60% of the Area Median Income, the one-, two-, and three-bedroom units offer accessible housing where people can live, work, commute, and connect to daily services. Notably, the inclusion of larger three-bedroom units is critical for supporting families, who are often underserved in affordable housing developments.

The key takeaway is that this project reflects a broader shift in how transit agencies are rethinking land use and community development. Instead of dedicating valuable station-area land solely to parking, VTA leased the 1.6-acre site to the developer—for mixed-use development. By placing housing directly adjacent to transit stations, the project encourages residents to rely less on cars, helping reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions while fostering more walkable, connected, and sustainable neighborhoods.

Why Santa Clara Needs TOD Housing

Santa Clara faces several challenges common to growing urban areas:

• Housing shortage: The demand for affordable housing exceeds supply, pushing prices higher.

• Traffic congestion: Heavy car use leads to longer travel times and pollution.

• Environmental concerns: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical for sustainability.

  
  

The VTA’s TOD housing project addresses these issues by offering new homes near transit options, encouraging residents to choose public transportation over driving.

Features of the VTA TOD Housing Project

The project includes several key features that make it stand out:

• Location: Situated near major VTA light rail stations, the housing offers easy access to transit lines connecting Santa Clara to San Jose and other Bay Area cities.

• Mixed-use design: The development combines residential units with retail spaces, creating a walkable neighborhood where residents can shop, dine, and socialize without needing a car.

• Affordable housing units: A portion of the homes is reserved for low- and moderate-income families, helping to address the affordability crisis.

• Sustainable building practices: The project incorporates energy-efficient designs, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.

  
  

Benefits for Residents and the Community

Living in a TOD community offers several advantages:

• Reduced commute times: With transit stops nearby, residents can avoid traffic jams and long drives.

• Lower transportation costs: Using public transit saves money on gas, parking, and car maintenance.

• Healthier lifestyle: Walkable neighborhoods encourage more physical activity and reduce air pollution.

• Stronger community ties: Mixed-use areas foster social interaction and local business growth.

  
  

For Santa Clara, the project also supports broader city goals like reducing carbon emissions and promoting equitable development.

Why does this matter?

If elected to the RTD Board, I will actively pursue these forms of partnership. Utilizing RTD assets to support both affordable and market-rate housing represents a mutually beneficial approach. In my professional experience, as an architect, I have designed and delivered thousands of transit-oriented development units over more than 25 years.

-JG

Article > https://tinyurl.com/ycxja5r4

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