The VTA Board of Directors voted unanimously in favor of a 5-year ground lease agreement with the City of San Jose for 7.2 acres of land at the Cerone Bus Yard.

The move enables the construction of 200 units of emergency interim housing. 

The Board of Directors' decision is another example of how VTA continues to support efforts to address solutions for unhoused individuals in our County.

The agreement was made with the following conditions:

1. Approval of the security plan by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (SCVTA)

2. Approval of an operating plan by SCVTA with support services including, but not limited to:
   1. Mental health services

   2. Drug and alcohol rehabilitation services

   3. Food services

   4. Transportation services

3. Approval of a termination and removal plan by SCVTA

The agreement also requires a phased opening approach to the facility, the establishment of a Safety Advisory Committee and a Community Advisory Committee, and approval of the temporary use at fair market value based on the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations.

VTA analyzed the near-term future needs at Cerone and developed a footprint that would avoid impeding VTA’s ability to expand its current facilities. 

VTA appreciates the support of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265 in helping to create a solution for the local housing crisis.