East San Jose Businesses & Residents Feel the Crunch of VTA Light Rail Project
A significant public transportation expansion in the South Bay, the Valley Transportation Authority’s (VTA) Eastridge to BART Regional Connector, is causing considerable distress for East San Jose businesses and residents. Two years into its construction along Capitol Expressway, the ambitious project, slated for completion in 2028, is leading to daily operational hurdles and financial strain for the local community.
The VTA Light Rail Project: A Double-Edged Sword
The VTA’s Eastridge to BART Regional Connector project aims to enhance public transportation options in the South Bay. However, for those living and working around the Capitol Expressway work zone in East San Jose, it has become a “nightmare.” The construction, characterized by traffic cones, heavy equipment, and “sidewalk closed” signs, significantly disrupts daily life and commerce.
Local Businesses Hit Hard by Construction Chaos
The impact on local businesses has been severe. Fernando Galindo, owner of La Grullensa Restaurant at the Crossroads Shopping Center since 1991, reports a devastating drop in sales. His Mexican restaurant has seen sales plummet by as much as 60% since construction began, a downturn he describes as worse than the 2008 housing market crash or even COVID-19.
Galindo points to several issues:
- Increased Commute Times: What once took drivers five minutes to reach Capitol Expressway now takes 15 to 20 minutes or more due to lane reductions and zigzagging traffic patterns. This discourages potential customers.
- Blocked Entrances: Construction crews have repeatedly blocked the main entrance to the shopping center, making it difficult for customers to access businesses like La Grullensa. Even when not fully blocked, large construction rigs often obscured visibility, causing drivers to miss the turn.
These access issues have directly contributed to the dramatic decline in customer traffic and sales, threatening the livelihoods of long-standing family businesses.
Community & Official Response: Seeking Solutions
San Jose Councilmember Peter Ortiz, who represents the Capitol Expressway Corridor, has been actively working with city officials to pressure VTA into addressing community concerns. Ortiz emphasizes that these are not Fortune 500 companies but “mom and pop families” whose generational investments are at risk.
While VTA has allocated $500,000 to assist affected small businesses and residents, Councilmember Ortiz believes this is insufficient. He highlights broader issues beyond business losses, such as cracks in driveways and home foundations, which could cost “tens of thousands of dollars” to repair. Ortiz argues that a “band-aid” solution won’t suffice for the extensive damage and disruption caused.
Councilmember Ortiz has already compelled VTA to hold a town hall meeting in his district, but he insists that more engagement is needed to truly alleviate the community’s concerns. As the holiday season approaches, Ortiz plans to spotlight small businesses along the corridor to help boost their sales and visibility.
Project Impact at a Glance
| Aspect | Before VTA Construction | During VTA Construction |
|---|---|---|
| Commute to Capitol Expy | ~5 minutes | 15-20+ minutes |
| La Grullensa Sales | Normal | Down up to 60% |
| Shopping Center Access | Generally clear | Blocked, obstructed, confusing |
| Project Duration | N/A | 2 years (so far), scheduled until 2028 |
FAQs about the East San Jose VTA Project
- What is the VTA project impacting East San Jose?
It’s the Valley Transportation Authority’s Eastridge to BART Regional Connector, a light rail expansion project along Capitol Expressway. - How long has construction been ongoing for this project?
Construction started two years ago and is scheduled to continue until 2028. - What are the main issues faced by local businesses like La Grullensa Restaurant?
Businesses are experiencing significant drops in sales (up to 60%), increased traffic congestion making access difficult, and blocked entrances to shopping centers due to construction. - Is the VTA providing any assistance to those affected?
Yes, the VTA has set aside $500,000 to help small businesses and residents, though Councilmember Peter Ortiz argues this amount is insufficient for the scale of damages and losses. - When is the VTA Eastridge to BART Regional Connector expected to be completed?
The project is scheduled to be finished in 2028.
As the VTA light rail project continues to reshape East San Jose, remaining informed and supporting local businesses along the Capitol Expressway Corridor will be crucial for the community’s resilience.
East San Jose feels VTA Light Rail crunch
