Overview

• San Jose City Council voted to approve the Columbus Park Revitalization Project, set to begin construction in early 2026.
• The plan includes clearing the city’s largest unhoused encampment this summer, displacing an estimated 400-500 residents living in RVs and vehicles.
• The revitalized park will feature amenities such as soccer fields, pickleball and basketball courts, and a playground.
• Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized safety concerns, citing a homicide and hundreds of emergency calls at the park in recent years, as key motivations for the decision.
• The city committed to adding over a thousand shelter beds and safe parking spots in the next 12 months, though concerns remain about addressing long-term housing needs.