Governor Newsom signs affordable housing legislation

(KYMA, KECY/ CNN) - California Governor Gavin Newsom was joined by other state leaders in San Jose on Thursday, to sign a bill that paves the way for more affordable housing, jobs and boosting the economy.

The signing event took place at the site of Google's planned Downtown West Development near Diridon Station in San Jose where Newsom appeared with Senate President Toni G. Atkins and introduced by San Jose Mayor, Sam Liccardo.

The bill changes zoning to allow more dense housing and expedites the state's environmental review process. The project includes more than 4,000 homes, about a quarter of which will be rent restricted or affordable units.

Construction on the project could start as early as 2023 and is expected to take at least 10 years to complete.