19 hours ago
Nvidia’s GTC Technology Conference near the SAP Center in San Jose is expected to draw more than 30,000 visitors. Some roads have already been closed for the week-long event, and further closures are planned.
Starting Monday, the so-called Super Bowl of AI will be in full swing. Sharks Way, North Montgomery Street, and Barrack Obama Boulevard were closed in both directions on Monday and will remain closed through Wednesday, according to the San Jose Police Department.
Additional full and partial road closures will stay in effect through Sunday, March 22, as crews dismantle stages and attractions following the massive AI conference.
On Monday, more streets near downtown and the convention center will close. Elmando Street and Santa Clara Street between Barrack Obama Boulevard and Delmas Avenue will be fully closed from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Later, from noon until 3 p.m., west Santa Clara Street and South Almaden Boulevard will be closed in both directions.
Despite the closures and expected traffic congestion, local residents say they have learned to adapt and accept traffic delays as part of life in Silicon Valley.
“It’s good, man. It’s just for a few days, and as I said, Nvidia is changing the world,” said Howard Lauron of San Jose.
“It’s great for the city – bringing in new people interested in learning about AI,” added Georgie Sawyers of Concord.
For those attending, experienced conference-goer Sam Ziari of Fremont offers advice: “Try not to drive, because there are so many people. Parking is going to be a nightmare. I personally would take rideshare services and get dropped off. You might have to walk a bit, but it’s much better than searching for and paying for parking.”
