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News and thoughts from our staff

 
Mega events, supply growth and pricing power to shape western U.S. hotel scene

Mega events, supply growth and pricing power to shape western U.S. hotel scene

By Brittney Sherman

Hotel performance in the western U.S. is increasingly diverging, shaped by event-driven demand on one hand and new room supply on the other. Gateway markets with global connectivity are expected to continue outperforming, led by San Francisco–San Mateo.

San Francisco is positioned for another year of solid hotel growth in 2026, supported by a recovering convention calendar, major events, rising international visitation, and limited new hotel supply. While growth is expected to moderate from the strong rebound seen in 2025, gains in occupancy and average daily rates are projected to support continued improvement in revenue per available room.

Other large markets, including Los Angeles, are seeing similar dynamics as major sporting events help offset new supply. By contrast, secondary California markets such as Sacramento and Oakland face headwinds, with new hotel deliveries outpacing demand growth and putting downward pressure on occupancy and pricing.

Read More HERE!

 
VTA approves design contract for Coyote Valley wildlife crossing

VTA approves design contract for Coyote Valley wildlife crossing

By Brittney Sherman

Planning is underway for a new wildlife crossing in Coyote Valley, with construction potentially beginning around 2028.

In January, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority approved an $8.7 million design contract for the U.S. 101/Monterey Road Wildlife Crossings Project. The proposed crossing, located near Fisher Creek and Monterey Road, would allow wildlife to safely cross Highway 101, Monterey Road, and the Union Pacific rail line.

Coyote Valley serves as an important habitat corridor for species such as deer, coyotes, bobcats, and mountain lions. Increased traffic has led to more wildlife-vehicle collisions, creating safety risks for both animals and motorists.

The project, long supported by conservation groups including the Peninsula Open Space Trust, aims to improve roadway safety while preserving ecological connectivity in southern Santa Clara County.

Read more HERE!

 
US office leasing up in past year

US office leasing up in past year

By Brittney Sherman

Office leasing activity improved in 2025, with tenants signing an estimated 410 million square feet nationwide, a modest rebound from 2024’s 15-year low. Leasing gained momentum over the course of the year, closing with three consecutive quarters above 100 million square feet for the first time since 2022, signaling gradual recovery from post-pandemic weakness.

Despite the increase in total volume and a high number of transactions, the recovery remains uneven. Roughly 30,000 lease deals were signed in 2025—above pre-pandemic norms—but average lease sizes continued to shrink, at about 3,500 square feet, well below late-2010s levels. This combination of higher deal counts and smaller spaces reflects ongoing caution among office tenants and a fragmented recovery across markets.

Read more HERE!

 
Morgan Hill community helps budget shortfall with new app

Morgan Hill community helps budget shortfall with new app

By Brittney Sherman

The City of Morgan Hill has introduced an online budget simulator to involve residents in addressing a $4 million structural deficit. Launched in late November, the tool allows users to test different combinations of service changes and revenue adjustments to balance the General Fund budget.

In its first two weeks, the simulator drew more than 400 users. City finance staff say the tool is designed to educate the public about how the city’s budget works, highlight the limited share of local tax revenue the city receives, and gather community input on potential solutions. The simulator presents a range of options—from significant service reductions to more moderate changes paired with tax increases—each with explanations of their potential impacts.

Participate HERE!

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Gateway Arch Approved by City Council

Gateway Arch Approved by City Council

By Brittney Sherman

On December 17, the Morgan Hill City Council unanimously approved plans for a $500,000 gateway arch over Monterey Road at Main Avenue, advancing a long-discussed downtown landmark. The Downtown Morgan Hill Improvement District will fund $250,000 of the project, with the remainder to be raised through private donations and community fundraising. Construction is targeted for completion by November 2026 in conjunction with the city’s 120th anniversary.

The arch will feature a laser-cut El Toro mountain silhouette with illuminated “Downtown Morgan Hill” lettering, supported by stone-filled columns and designed to maintain truck clearance and driver visibility. While the project prompted discussion about spending priorities amid budget constraints, the city does not control how the improvement district allocates its funds.

Read more HERE!

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