San Jose Shifts Focus to Improving Shelter System Amid Expansion Challenges

City to open new emergency interim housing site as it aims to end 'era of encampments'

Feb. 5, 2026 at 8:15pm

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Marking a critical milestone, San Jose will open a new emergency interim housing site at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority's Cerone Yard later this month, as the city attempts to end the 'era of encampments' amid challenges in expanding its shelter system.

Why it matters

San Jose has struggled to keep up with the growing homelessness crisis, with the city's shelter system unable to accommodate all those in need. The new interim housing site represents an effort to provide more temporary solutions while the city works to address the underlying issues.

The details

The new emergency interim housing site at the Cerone Yard is part of San Jose's strategy to move away from encampments and provide more structured temporary housing options. The city aims to ensure that participants' time at the site is 'purposeful and as brief as possible' as it works to connect them with longer-term housing and support services.

  • The new emergency interim housing site at the Cerone Yard will open later this month.

The players

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority

The regional public transportation agency serving Santa Clara County, California, which is providing the Cerone Yard site for San Jose's new emergency interim housing.

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The takeaway

San Jose's efforts to expand its shelter system and provide more temporary housing options represent a critical step in addressing the city's growing homelessness crisis, though challenges remain in ensuring these solutions are effective and sustainable in the long run.