Amidst concerns from locals regarding traffic and safety, the San Jose Planning Commission has taken steps toward finalizing plans for a new Costco at West San Jose’s Westgate West Shopping Center. According to San José Spotlight, residents fear the store will negatively impact traffic safety and increase noise pollution due to the store's proximity to Prospect High School and residential areas.
Despite the opposition, the commission voted unanimously to move forward with the proposal for the prospective Costco located at 5287 Prospect Road, with a final vote set for October 22 by the San Jose City Council. Marc Pawliger, a force behind the grassroots group Save West Valley!, aired grievances that the area isn’t prepared to contend with the store's traffic, as reported by San José Spotlight.
With traffic safety concerns at the forefront of the debate, residents have criticized an environmental impact report for not adequately reflecting peak traffic times, as San José Spotlight notes. The high school’s Parent Teacher Student Association president, Julie Reynolds, expressed concern, saying, "The location is inappropriate," due to its closeness to homes and schools.
In response to these concerns, Costco has committed to various mitigation measures, including the closing off of a driveway near Graves Avenue and increasing landscaping along the area to buffer adjacent neighborhoods. A new 6-foot-high wall along Graves Avenue is also part of the plan, which aims to reduce noise and visual impacts. Erik Schoennauer, advocating for Costco, insisted these measures would address noise concerns, according to the letter referenced by San José Spotlight.
Aside from safety and noise, the proposal features economic promises, including 250 to 300 new jobs and nearly $2 million in annual tax revenue, as represented by land-use consultant Erik Schoennauer. Planning Commissioner Pierluigi Oliverio threw his support behind the project, citing the need for economic development within the city.
Despite the anticipated economic benefits, opposition persists. Amy Cody, President of the Moreland West Neighborhood Association, expressed the sentiment that Costco should contribute more significantly to the needed infrastructure improvements. The Costco Westgate West project website details the adjustments made by Costco in direct response to community feedback, including traffic and pedestrian safety improvements.
