New Development + Transit: The Projects Shaping Modesto’s Future

Here’s a closer look at the projects defining Modesto’s next chapter ?????

The Rail Revolution: ACE Train & Valley Rail

The most transformative infrastructure shift underway is the long-awaited arrival of the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE).

Passenger Service Timeline
Service is expected to begin in late 2026, marking a major milestone for regional mobility.

A Historic Hub, Reimagined
At the center of it all is the beautifully restored 1915 Southern Pacific Depot. Its Mission Revival architecture has been preserved while integrating modern transit amenities, creating the new Modesto Transit Center—a symbolic bridge between past and future.

Regional Connectivity, Expanded
This isn’t just about commuting to Silicon Valley. The broader Valley Rail program connects Modesto to Sacramento, Merced, and—via the North Valley Rail extension—even Chico. For the Central Valley, this is a game-changer.

Economic Ripple Effects
By tying Modesto directly to major tech and government employment corridors, the city is positioning itself as an ideal home base for remote and hybrid professionals seeking affordability without cutting themselves off from opportunity.

Downtown Reimagined: From Plan to Reality

Modesto’s Downtown Master Plan is no longer just a vision document—it’s actively reshaping the urban core.

Courthouse Block Redevelopment
With the new courthouse nearing completion, attention has shifted to the former courthouse block. Proposed plans include high-density residential, green space along I Street, and mixed-use retail, bringing new life and foot traffic into the heart of downtown.

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Rezoning around the Ninth Street transit hub is encouraging “Missing Middle” housing—townhomes and mid-rise apartments that strike a balance between affordability and density. This is especially impactful for young professionals and growing families.

Streets Designed for People
Several one-way streets are under review for two-way conversion, a move aimed at calming traffic, improving safety, and making downtown more walkable and bike-friendly.

A New Chapter for Professional Baseball

For a moment, it looked like Modesto might lose a piece of its identity. Instead, 2026 delivers a reset.

Pioneer League Baseball Arrives
After the departure of the Modesto Nuts, the City Council secured a new partnership with a Pioneer League affiliate, keeping professional baseball alive in the city.

Back at John Thurman Field
The new team is set to throw its first pitch this year, ensuring that affordable, family-friendly summer nights remain part of Modesto’s DNA ?

Housing, Stability, and Inclusive Growth

Infrastructure matters—but people matter more. Modesto has made meaningful progress in addressing housing needs and community stability.

Dignity Village & Jenny’s Place
Now fully operational, these supportive housing communities provide safe, stable environments for residents transitioning out of homelessness.

7th Street Village
By adding affordable units and thoughtful density to the city core, this project proves that urban renewal and inclusivity can—and should—coexist.

Looking Ahead: A More Connected Modesto

The Modesto of tomorrow is being built around connection.

Whether it’s hopping on a train to a new job, walking through a revitalized downtown park, or finding stable housing close to services, these projects are shaping a city that is more accessible, more integrated, and more future-ready than ever before.

This isn’t just growth—it’s intentional evolution. And Modesto is ready for it.