To expand regional mobility and relieve congestion in Silicon Valley, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) extended its rapid transit service into the area with the opening of Milpitas Station. Positioned between San José and Fremont, the station is projected to serve roughly 20,000 daily travelers by 2030. As part of the Milpitas Transit Center campus, the station offers seamless connections to BART lines, Valley Transportation Authority’s (VTA) Orange Line, nine VTA bus routes including Alameda-Contra Costa Transit’s Route 217 and a network of Silicon Valley employer shuttles. Riders also gain direct access to the Great Mall and connections to the Daly City Green and Richmond Orange lines for travel north into the San Francisco region.
What challenges did STV address?
The station’s location – adjacent to an elevated light rail line and bordered by a major expressway – created unique design constraints for circulation, daylighting and structural integration. Ensuring a safe, intuitive passenger experience within a compressed vertical footprint required careful architectural planning and detailed coordination with multiple agencies.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV provided architectural design and construction consultation services focused on materials selection, assembly methods, lighting, fire life safety and passenger security. The team placed the boarding platforms beneath the concourse access building while introducing large skylights within the arched roof to bring natural light to the platform level. This approach reduced reliance on artificial lighting and ensured the below‑concourse environment remained open and welcoming.
How does this project benefit the region?
Milpitas Station strengthens regional connectivity by offering direct rail access to major Bay Area job centers, retail destinations and residential communities. The station supports sustainable travel choices, improves transit reliability and enhances the daily experience for commuters across Silicon Valley.
Key stats and accolades
- Designed to serve about 20,000 daily travelers by 2030
- Integrated with BART, VTA light rail and nine bus routes
- Skylit concourse delivers natural light to platform level
- Key gateway to Great Mall and northern Bay Area travel
