San Jose Rezones IBM Site Amidst Environmental Concerns

The San Jose City Council has approved the rezoning of the former IBM Almaden Research Center, a move that has raised environmental concerns among residents. The 35-acre site in South San Jose is zoned for industrial use and could potentially attract data centers to the area.

Councilmembers Rosemary Kamei and Pamela Campos voted against the rezoning, calling for more community input before finalizing plans. They argued that uniform standards for data center projects are needed first, but their request was declined by the majority of council members.

Land use consultant Erik Schoennauer, who represents IBM, sees the rezoning as a step towards productive use of the land, generating significant tax revenue and creating jobs. However, environmental groups such as the Sierra Club, California Native Plant Society, and Mothers Out Front have expressed concerns about the impact on the surrounding open space and potential for increased traffic and pollution.

Alice Kaufman from Green Foothills pointed out that rezoning often occurs after a final project is approved, and in this case, the council was asked to do it in advance. She expressed disappointment that they decided not to delay the decision until more information about future development plans is known.