Publication Date

Spring 2004

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Urban Planning (MUP)

Department

Urban and Regional Planning

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to define strategies that the city of San Jose could undertake to encourage the implementation of transit-oriented development (TOD) in the area surrounding the Diridon station near downtown San Jose. Significant transportation investments are currently being focused on potentially expanding the Diridon station, thereby creating a regional transit hub in the South Bay. This presents a unique opportunity to create a TOD land use pattern in the area. The study area, for which TOD is recommended in this report, is defined to be an area of approximately half-mile radius around the Diridon station as shown in Figure 1.1.

Diridon Station is the region’s principal rail transportation facility. It has a strategic location adjacent to downtown San Jose and an expanding transit system connecting San Jose to the rest of the County and the State. These factors give the study area prime importance within the region. It connects the surrounding neighborhoods with other parts of San Jose, and brings regional accessibility to the neighborhoods. A compact TOD in the area surrounding the station can help increase transit ridership by intensifying residential development along with employment and entertainment opportunities, thus supporting the expansion of the regional commuter and local light rail transit service. TOD can also help the city achieve its affordable housing goals and economic development objectives by providing affordable housing in the form of infill development near this expanding regional transit hub. The expansion of the multi modal transit hub along with the potential job, housing, and entertainment opportunities near the station would add to the quality of life of people living, working or visiting the city.

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