Watch CBS News

San Jose Begins Toxic Cleanup For Housing Development

SAN JOSE (KCBS) - Work has begun to transform a contaminated property in San Jose into an attractive and affordable housing development.

San Jose received $525,000 from the Department of Toxic Substances Control to decontaminate a 1.7-acre site on Monterey Highway just south of Curtner Ave., according to Stewart Black, the department's acting deputy director.

KCBS Mike Colgan Reporting:

"It's been a toxic wasteland for many years. Without the seed money that we can provide to help make these projects go forward, these properties will just sit here unused," said Black.

Black added that he's very excited about cleanup efforts because it's expected to provide the better part of 130 to 150 jobs.

San Jose City Council member Madison Nguyen, who represents the area, said there's a tremendous need for affordable housing in her district.

"With this particular development we are addressing needs for residents who traditionally would not be able to afford a market-rate house. This affordable housing complex will address that specific need for low-income families," said Nguyen.

Construction of this 92-unit apartment complex is expected to take about 18 months.

(© 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.