Valbridge Property Advisors | Northern California recently served as the real estate appraisal expert witness on behalf of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) in an eminent domain case connected to the BART Silicon Valley Phase II Extension Project (BSVII).

The case involved VTA’s acquisition of a 9.37-acre industrial property for the planned transit extension, including the future 28th Street/Little Portugal BART Station. A truck dealership had operated on a portion of the property before relocating to a nearby site.

During litigation, the dealership sought $21.17 million in compensation for alleged loss of business goodwill. Following a 10-day jury trial in May 2026, the jury awarded no compensation for business goodwill. In September 2026, the trial judge denied the dealership’s motion for a new trial, upholding the jury’s verdict.

Valbridge’s role was specifically focused on real estate appraisal expertise. The firm served as VTA’s real estate appraisal expert witness, providing valuation analysis relevant to the litigation. The business goodwill appraisal was conducted by a separate expert.

Real Estate Valuation in Complex Infrastructure Litigation

Eminent domain cases involving major infrastructure projects can require sophisticated real estate valuation analysis to address property rights, market conditions, and the potential uses of a property. Expert appraisal opinions must be well-supported, clearly explained, and able to withstand scrutiny in a legal setting.

Valbridge’s work in this matter reflects the importance of credible, independent real estate appraisal expertise in supporting public agencies and their legal counsel through complex condemnation proceedings.

Supporting the Future of Silicon Valley Transit

VTA’s BART Silicon Valley Phase II Extension Project is a planned six-mile extension of the regional BART system from Berryessa/North San José through downtown San José to Santa Clara. The project includes four stations and is intended to expand regional transit connectivity throughout Santa Clara County.

This assignment is one of many the Valbridge Northern California team has completed in connection with BSVII, underscoring the firm’s ongoing experience supporting complex property valuation matters associated with major infrastructure development.

Valbridge is proud to have supported VTA and its counsel in this matter. The firm continues to provide real estate appraisal and litigation support services for public agencies, attorneys, and property owners navigating eminent domain, condemnation, and other complex valuation challenges.