SAN JOSE — A dramatic new office tower is being eyed in downtown San Jose, a highrise that would be crafted with elements that contain safety features and amenities for the coronavirus era.
The 20-story tower, being developed by a group led by J.P. DiNapoli Cos., a savvy and veteran development firm, would sprout on Almaden Boulevard between Post Street and West San Fernando Street and is expected to appeal to tech companies seeking a transit-oriented location.
“We are pleased to bring forward another first-class office tower project to this burgeoning area on Almaden Boulevard,” said John DiNapoli, president of J.P. DiNapoli Cos.
The new highrise, designed by Gensler, a top architectural firm, would total 781,000 square feet and include six terraces for gatherings, recreation, and dining at a choice spot in downtown San Jose.
“Gensler employed multiple post-pandemic design strategies that push the idea of creating space that can adapt quickly to changing expectations of the people who will use this space,” said Daniel Glaessl, design director for Gensler San Jose.
The development site for the office tower is next to a long-time telephone company telecommunications hub at 50 Almaden Boulevard. The office tower would rise on a surface parking lot.
Acting through affiliate Sequoia Del Rey, DiNapoli Cos. paid $35.65 million in December 2019 to purchase the property, according to Santa Clara County public records. County documents show the seller was AT&T unit Pacific Bell. Steve Horton, a vice chairman with commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, arranged the transaction.
The coronavirus-era features in the building include an ultra-flexible and touchless entry area that can accommodate multiple tenant lobbies.
Interconnecting staircases within a tenant’s space and access to fresh air through outdoor areas will also be featured. Plus, a combination of centralized and decentralized building systems is expected to allow for flexible ventilation and new air filtration.
“We feel the building’s design will be a great addition to a dynamic and growing downtown San Jose,” DiNapoli said.
