“We’re closer than we’ve ever been,” San Jose Earthquakes president Dave Kaval on the team’s new stadium quest after the city of San Jose approved a permit needed to startconstruction on a $60-million soccer stadium.
The permit is expected to be finalized Friday but won’t become valid until Jan. 3 if the decision isn’t appealed. San Jose planning directorJoseph Horwedel said a few residents concerned about noise are considering an appeal. Quakes officials have agreed to meet quarterly with area residents to try to solve anystadium-related issues once the project is completed.
The latest permit spells out what types of events can be held at the proposed 18,000-seat stadium adjacent to Mineta San JoseInternational Airport. The Quakes hope to open the 2013 season in a new facility. It currently plays at 10,500-seat Buck Shaw Stadium at Santa Clara University.