SF: VTA Expands Light Rail to Connect East San Jose
VTA closes left-turn lanes in East San Jose through mid-July for light rail extension work
VTA Closes Left-Turn Lanes for Light Rail Work
Drivers in East San Jose face left-turn lane closures through mid-July as construction continues on VTA's Eastridge to BART Regional Connector light rail extension, transit officials said Wednesday. The closures affect the construction zone and require motorists to adjust routes and allow extra travel time. The 2.4-mile extension will add three new light rail stations connecting East San Jose to the regional transit network, though officials haven't announced a completion date for the project.
The EBRC project is part of VTA's $12.7 billion BART Silicon Valley Phase II program, which aims to extend regional transit service deeper into Santa Clara County. The VTA Board approved the project alignment and three station locations in September 2019, and environmental clearance was received in June 2023. Carolyn Gonot, General Manager and CEO, oversees the project as VTA works to improve connectivity between East San Jose neighborhoods and the broader BART system. The extension will add to VTA's existing 42.2-mile light rail network.
Officials outlined the traffic impacts in a construction update posted to VTA's blog but didn't specify exact intersections affected by the left-turn closures. Stacey Hendler Ross, Deputy Director of Communications, said drivers should check VTA's website for detailed traffic advisories. The agency recommends motorists plan alternative routes where possible, especially if their usual commute involves left turns in the affected areas. Specific costs for the EBRC component haven't been separately disclosed from the larger Phase II program budget.
The current phase of construction activities affecting traffic patterns is scheduled to continue through mid-July 2025, according to the transit agency. Officials said construction will extend beyond that date but haven't provided a specific timeline for project completion. The agency typically releases construction updates through its blog and recommends drivers stay informed about ongoing work that may affect their commutes.
East San Jose residents should expect continued traffic delays and detours as construction progresses on the light rail extension. Expected ridership figures for the new line haven't been publicly released. Drivers can monitor real-time traffic conditions and plan alternative routes using transit apps. Moovit provides updates on VTA service and construction impacts affecting the San Jose area.
