In order for the ballpark to be built, development corporation KB Home would have to give up its option to build condos and townhouses on the property, which is located on Auzerais Avenue west of Bird Avenue.

North Willow Glen Neighborhood Association President Ken Ecklund said his organization is not yet worried about the possibility of a ballpark.

"There are too many hoops that need to be jumped through," he said.

But he added that residents should not wait to voice their concerns about the proposal.

"Our ability to influence things happens in the beginning," Ecklund said. "It might be too late if we speak up later."

If the ballpark were to be built, traffic could be a key issue in the North Willow Glen area, especially around the Interstate 280 exit on Bird Avenue, Ecklund said.

Because the ballpark proposal is still in the preliminary stages, Ecklund said association members are remaining vigilant but not panicking.

"The citizens of North Willow Glen are remaining calm," he said. "We are not being quiet, but we are looking at the situation realistically, and not leaping to any conclusions."

Willow Glen Neighborhood Association Vice President Ed Rast agreed that he needed more information before he could take a stand on the ballpark issue. But early notification and participation of the community, he added, should be on the city's agenda.

"That discussion needs to start now," he said.

Residents who wish to participate in a dialogue about the proposed ballpark can attend the neighborhood association's February meeting, when San Jose Redevelopment Agency Executive Director Harry Mavrogenes will be available to discuss the issue.

The next Willow Glen Neighborhood Association will be Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. at the Willow Glen Methodist Church on the corner of Minnesota and Newport avenues. For more information, visit www. wgna.net.