FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sunday, March 1, 2026
CONTACT: Janine De la Vega, Director of Communications/Public Information Officer 408-422-6396 or jdelavega@santaclaraca.gov
SANTA CLARA, Calif. – At 6:47 p.m., on February 28, 2026, the Santa Clara Fire Department received reports of displaced concrete at Villa Bella, a condominium complex located at 1850 El Camino Real. Firefighters responded and evacuated approximately 60 people from the building out of concern for their safety. Residents of about 10 homes behind the complex on Clay Street were asked to evacuate due to their homes being in a potential collapse zone. As a precaution, both directions of El Camino Real were initially closed between Scott Boulevard and Pierce Street, but the westbound lanes reopened late last night.
The City opened its Community Recreation Center located at 969 Kiely Blvd. as a shelter for displaced residents, however, the majority opted to make their own arrangements.
This morning, a team of structural engineers from the developer, the condo’s Homeowners Association, and engineers from the City conducted an assessment of the building. It was determined that the building is in no danger of imminent collapse, and the collapse zone perimeter was lifted by the Santa Clara Fire Department. Residents on Clay Street have been advised their homes are safe to occupy.
It was determined that shoring on the northside of the building appears to be needed before the 56-unit building can be reoccupied. The City is in touch with the developer who will be responsible for construction and repairs needed. Engineers are currently assessing whether the unaffected portion of the building can be reoccupied. The eastbound lanes of El Camino Real between Scott Blvd. and Pierce St. are expected to reopen later today.
City Officials have met with the Homeowners Association and residents to update them on next steps. Fire personnel are working with the residents to retrieve pets, medication, and essentials. Approximately 130 residents are displaced. The City is working with the American Red Cross to assist the displaced residents and working to identify a facility with showers as an alternative shelter location. Residents are being urged to contact their insurance companies for additional assistance.
