Sharks Staying in San Jose - Love it or Too Risky?

Hope you had a fantastic weekend!  Something I read recently, which I think is good news for San Jose and the South Bay: the Sharks are officially sticking around downtown through 2051! The City Council signed off on a deal that will put more than $350 million into upgrades for the SAP Center, giving the 32-year-old arena a serious refresh. We’re talking everything from plumbing and electrical to WiFi, concourses, and fan spaces.

Now, I get that pro sports teams can be a pricey commitment for a city, but personally, I think having a team like the Sharks (and Earthquakes) adds a lot of energy and national visibility. It’s part of what makes a city feel big-time. Not everyone agrees with me there, but I think it matters.

On top of that, the deal includes a commitment to start planning a brand-new arena by 2027. Supporters say the long-term impact will pump billions into the local economy, while critics point to San Jose’s budget issues. Either way, it shows how important the Sharks and the SAP Center are to the city’s identity and growth.

From a real estate perspective, projects like this are always interesting to watch. Investments in sports and entertainment hubs often ripple out into nearby neighborhoods, helping local businesses and boosting property values. To me, it’s another sign that San Jose is doing all it can to remain relevant.  It's cool to be downtown in the evening and see that wave of teal jerseys marching under highway 87 to fill up SAP. I'm not a big hockey fan, but I love the buzz it makes! 

What do you think? Smart move for the city’s future, or too much risk with the current budget?

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