With the BSVII Project, VTA leads a transformative program that unites and empowers the community it serves, fulfilling the vision of “ringing the bay” with high-quality, green transit. Supported by strong local, state, and federal commitments, it prioritizes equitable access, including affordable housing, quality transit, and inclusive neighborhoods, while connecting South Bay residents to millions of jobs and generating 75,000 diverse job opportunities. VTA’s vision is one of inclusion and progress, leaving a lasting legacy for Santa Clara County and the greater Bay Area.
Learn about the Project Benefits
Minimize Disruption to Local Businesses
Minimized disruption to local businesses to the extent feasible through single-bore construction methodology.
Connecting Transit Dependent Riders
Connecting 1.7 million transit-dependent riders annually to high-quality transit.
Reduce Annual CO Emissions
VMT reductions are estimated to reduce annual CO
emissions by 50 tons and annual greenhouse gas
emissions by 19,500 tons per year by 2040.
Activation of Station Sites
Activation of station sites and streets that
foster walkability, vibrancy, activity, and cultivate a transit-oriented community.
Travel Time Savings
An average travel time saving benefits of 30 minutes for a 50-mile commute.
Student Riders
5,600 student riders are projected to use the system daily. VTA buses will continue to serve 44,000 weekday riders during construction.
Access to Bay Area Jobs
Bay Area commuters will gain access to
1 million Jobs in Silicon Valley. 2 million people in Santa Clara County will gain access to 3.5 million Bay Area Jobs.
Intermodal Connection
Intermodal connection to Caltrain, intercity, light rail, and regional bus service made possible through the extension.
Equitable Transit
Providing equitable transit for low-income communities.
New Development and Housing
Spur 60 million sq. ft of new development and housing within an approx. 10-minute walking distance to the alignment.
Bringing Access and Opportunities to Santa Clara County
Learn how the BSVII Project is transforming the community by "Ringing the Bay" with high-quality, clean, green transit
2024 Is Our Year. Tremendous Federal, State, and Local Financial Commitment in BART Extension Program
- With nearly $1 billion from the Federal Government for Phase I, plus strong local support including Santa Clara County’s $1.2 billion for Phase I, this project demonstrates a universal commitment towards advancing transportation access.
- With nearly $6.45 billion from the state and county already committed to BSVII, this project demonstrates a collective effort towards transportation and economic transformation and enhancement.
- These investments not only reflect the will of the voters but also alleviate congestion and foster job growth across Santa Clara County, enhancing mobility and economic benefits at every level.
- In August 2024, VTA received a commitment from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for $5.1 billion in funding through the New Starts program.
Delivering on the Commitment to the 16-Mile Program, Completes the Long-Term Vision to Ring-The-Bay with Fast Frequent Rail Transit
- Completion of the BSVII Project extension will connect Santa Clara County with the larger existing BART system, providing easy connections from the south Bay to areas in the north bay served by BART and Caltrain. Â
- For a typical 50-mile commute in the Bay Area, taking BART will save riders an average of 30 minutes as opposed to driving. Â
- VTA’s BART Silicon Valley below ground extension will not only boosts the BART system’s efficiency by reducing delays and enhancing reliability but also helps provide safer streets by preventing pedestrian, bicycle, and automobile collisions.Â
Clean, Green Transit Alternative to Major Congested Commute Corridors
- The project will reduce traffic congestion and delays by providing a practical alternative to driving, thereby reducing the number of cars on the road and the stress it places on individuals and the environment.
- Recent studies shows that the project will provide the reduction of 56.4 million vehicle miles travelled (VMT) by reducing 50 tons of CO2 and 19,500 tons of Green House Gas emissions. This helps improve air quality and prevent further climate change.
Delivering Equitable Transit Access
- The project aims to enhance public transportation access in East San José, improving connectivity for non-car households and ensuring easier access to healthcare and education.
- By offering reliable transit to healthcare facilities and supporting the academic missions of San José State and Santa Clara University with low-cost transit options, the project fosters a more connected community and provides new opportunities for residents.
Affordable Housing For Diverse Workforce
- The project reflects VTA’s dedication to affordable housing and the creation of inclusive, vibrant communities around transit stations, planning for up to 60 million sq. ft. of new commercial and residential development near the four stations.
- It also includes the principles of Transit-Oriented Communities, which promote accessible, sustainable living with a focus on affordable housing, a diverse workforce, and equitable access, ensuring economic growth and improved transit connections.
Sustain and Grow Silicon Valley Economy
- For every $1 invested in the project, it results in $5 of economic growth being generated for Santa Clara County, providing a strong economic return on investment for job creation and economic activity.
- By helping to improve transit connections for both employees and employers, the project will expand employment opportunities for 2 million people in Santa Clara County by providing access to 3.5 million Bay Area jobs.
Job Creation
- Upon completion, the project will have generated 75,000 jobs, including both direct jobs within the construction industry and support positions, offering substantial employment opportunities.
- The Community Workforce Agreement within the Project Labor Agreement (PLA) ensures the project progresses efficiently and equitably by avoiding labor disputes and fostering a collaborative, socially responsible environment.
- The PLA reflects VTA’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity, promoting business diversity and career opportunities for underserved communities, thereby driving social change and economic empowerment in Santa Clara County.
A Better-Connected and Improved Santa Clara County is on the Horizon
- The project will provide Santa Clara County residents with efficient and reliable transportation options, connecting them to job centers, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities both within the county and throughout the Bay Area.
- The commitment to providing affordable housing in station areas will directly benefit City of San José and City of Santa Clara residents struggling with housing affordability. This commitment addresses the cities’ housing challenges by offering more accessible and affordable housing options, improving the overall quality of life for all residents.
- The project’s focus on fair access, job creation, and affordable housing directly benefits Santa Clara County’s diverse population, by enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for county residents, ensuring that disadvantaged communities have better access to opportunities and essential services.