The extension to downtown is a complex and ambitious project facing many challenges and questions about feasibility.

Nico Savidge reports on cost increases and schedule delays for the Bay Area Rapid Transit’s downtown San Jose extension project.
"Last year, [Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority] officials increased the extension’s estimated cost by $900 million and pushed back their timeline for completing it by as much as four years — from a $4.7 billion project finished in 2026 to a $5.6 billion one that could open in 2029 or 2030," says Savidge.
One issue is the single-bore design that will require a very wide tunnel to accommodate two trains. In addition, three underground stations will be 10 stories belowground and high-speed elevators are planned at two stations to transport riders to and from the platforms.
"Perhaps the biggest question, though, is whether BART and VTA will work together effectively, or if the extension’s extra layer of complexity — having one public transit agency build an extension that another will use — will further bog down the complex downtown project," notes Savidge.
FULL STORY: BART’s San Jose extension is woefully delayed, and the hardest part is still to come

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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