More than a dozen community-based organizations and local agencies throughout San Jose, Calif.’s Santa Clara County received VTA funding through a cutting-edge program to enhance transit-oriented communities. 

“Through the TOC Grant Program, VTA is empowering communities to take an active role in shaping their future,” said VTA GM/CEO Carolyn Gonot. “These projects will not only enhance access to transit but also help create inclusive, sustainable neighborhoods where all our residents can thrive.”

Types of Projects Funded

Projects funded in this one-of-a-kind transit agency funding program received $15,000 to $175,000 to advance the creation of vibrant, equitable, and sustainable public spaces, housing, and commercial development near public transit stations throughout the county. Recipients were divided into four program areas:

• Planning and Policy Implementation: This area supports local agencies in advancing long-term plans and policies that advance sustainable growth around transit. Grantees in this area will receive up to $175,000 each.

• Community Resilience: This category funds initiatives by community-based organizations aimed at enhancing the stability and resilience of communities surrounding transit. Grantees in this area will receive up to $100,000 each.

• Education and Engagement: Focused on elevating community leadership and engagement to shape their neighborhoods and advocate for equitable, transit-friendly policies. Grantees will receive up to $27,500 each.

• Placemaking, Arts, and Activation: This area funds creative placemaking initiatives to enrich public spaces around transit stations through art, culture, and beautification. Grantees will receive up to $15,000 each.

VTA’s TOC Program

VTA’s Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) program works to strengthen communities, increase transit ridership, reduce the need for car trips, and support intensive mixed-use, mixed-income development around light rail stations and transit hubs. 

The agency encourages transit-oriented development, providing long-term property leases for developers building market rate, affordable and emergency housing near VTA light rail stations and transit centers. 

The TOC Grant Program complements this approach by extending a community investment strategy to the immediate neighborhoods next to train stations and transit centers to implement essential elements of strong communities, including promoting affordable housing, small business retention, and enhancing vibrancy through arts and culture. 

Marking a New Milestone

This is the first time VTA has granted funding for outside organizations to have an impact on the planning and policy, community resilience, education and engagement, and creative enrichment of public spaces.

VTA will again begin accepting applications for the 2025 program in the spring.