East San Jose is about to get a major neighborhood makeover.

This morning, groundbreaking ceremonies will be held at what's now called the Plaza de San José -- a new family-friendly shopping center located on the southeast corner of King and Story roads. Its goal is to echo the architecture of a Mexican town center. It will be home to new Target and Walgreens stores, a major bank and Latino-themed stores.

That's a lot of good news for a community that deserves it.

East San Jose has always possessed clear views of the city's foothills, and the intersection of King and Story has long served as a draw for neighbors seeking everything from a quart of milk to live mariachi music -- and the latest local news.

That's why it's good to hear developer Jerry Hunt, a principal of Blake Hunt Ventures, say he wants to recognize the families and blue-collar residents who provide East San Jose its personality, heart and soul.

The arrival of Wells Fargo is more than a sign of respect. It will offer a convenience that neighborhoods across San Jose enjoy. Working families who live near the plaza will no longer be forced to travel for basic financial services. It will also provide an alternative to check-cashing services.

The Plaza de San José will also enhance the area's Latino offerings. Ritmo Latino is a popular music store and Famsa is a Mexico-based store selling furniture, appliances and electronics. At Famsa, a son in San Jose can buy a refrigerator for his mother in Mexico, and she can pick it up there.

Mayor Ron Gonzales, Council Member Nora Campos and former Council Member George Shirakawa Jr. deserve praise for helping making this vision a reality.

But the real credit goes to the people who every day help make this neighborhood a unique part of San Jose.