Despite a proposed compromise, critics of a plan to redevelop the decades-old San Jose Flea Market still aren't satisfied as fears persist that hundreds of vendors could be displaced.
Flea market owners are pushing for a redevelopment plan that would make way for thousands of new homes and offices. Facing pressure, owners now intend to include vendors in the plan, though a much scaled-back version.
"The neighborhood is changing and there’s a tremendous amount of value that the flea market concept brings to that community," said Rollando Bonilla, San Jose planning commissioner.
Roberto Gonzalez heads a group advocating for the vendors.
"By our estimates, it’s only going to house one out of six or one out of 10 vendors at the market currently," he told KCBS Radio.
Gonzalez said that with less space, too many vendors would be left out, but others see the new plan as a path forward. He’s calling for more space or support from the city to do so.
"We’re in this for the long hail," Gonzalez added.
San Jose's planning commission is set to take up the matter at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.
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