San Jose's Last Frontier

As one of the last large open areas remaining in San Jose, aplan by Cisco Systems Inc. for a 20,000 worker research and developmentcenter in Coyote Valley has caused a controversial battle amongenvironmentalists trying to prevent sprawl and proponents who argue theeconomic benefits. The project has garnered support from localgovernment leaders who argue that more jobs in southern San Jose wouldalleviate rush-hour commutes in Silicon Valley and provide impetus toestablish stronger public transit systems to serve the area.Environmentalists counter that the 688-acre project would act as acatalyst for further development in the surrounding farmlands, not tomention the increase in traffic, consequent air pollution, and soaringhome prices that would ensue.Several local groups have formed a coalition called People for Livableand Affordable Neighborhoods (PLAN) and circulated a petition demandinga public vote on the Cisco development. While the petition wasultimately invalidated due to faulty legal language, the coalition plansto go to court in order to protect quality of life in the area.