Silicon Valley Bike Coalition Partners With SJ For 'VivaCalleSJ'

A new program starting in October will encourage outdoor recreation along San Jose roads normally occupied by cars, city officials said Wesnesday.

The free program, “VivaCalleSJ,” is a partnership with the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition that will close certain city streets for outdoor activities such as walking, biking and skating, city officials said.

The program’s inaugural event is scheduled for Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when 6 miles of road stretching from downtown to East San Jose will be closed to cars.

Starting from St. James Park, the route stretches to Market and First streets, continuing through the Calle Willow Business District, heading east along Keyes Street and Story Road, ending at Emma Prusch Farm Park. Activity hubs filled with vendors, activities and entertainment will be set up at St. James Park, Parque De Los Pobladores at South First and Williams streets and Emma Prusch Farm Park.

“VivaCalleSJ will convert San José’s streets into a vibrant paved park where families can bike, walk, or skate in areas they would normally drive through,” Mayor Sam Liccardo said in a statement. “They will be given the chance to explore these wonderful neighborhoods and discover local businesses while improving their mental and physical health,” he said. VivaCalleSJ is expected to continue next year and reach other parts of the city.

The city’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services is managing the program and The Knight Foundation is providing a portion of the funds, city officials said.

-Bay City News