Overview of the projects

The City of Cupertino performs regular and ongoing maintenance on city streets and sidewalks, and for the past five years has been regularly updating curb cuts to the latest ADA standards. This work, while important and ongoing, is not the focus of the pedestrian sidewalk projects that were listed in the Pedestrian Transportation Plan approved by City Council in 2018.

McClellan Road

The McClellan Road Sidewalk project was conceived to ultimately connect Lincoln Elementary to Foothill Blvd with a continuous sidewalk length. Phase 1 of this project, which installs sidewalks along Rose Blossom to Hwy 85 is less challenging than Phase 2 (Orange to San Leandro). Phase 2 had issues including acquiring right-of-way, relocation of utilities, etc., and was implemented over a two-year period.

Byrne Avenue

This project comprises adding sidewalks along Byrne from McClellan to Granada.  Due to the much smalller amount (ten) of right-of-way discussions, this project was designated as Phase 1 of the Byrne/Orange Project.

Orange Avenue

This project comprises adding sidewalks along Orange from McClellan to Granada. Orange Avenue required the City Staff to have 24 right-of-way discussions with homeowners, requiring it to be split into a separate phase from Byrne Avenue.

Why Does Walk-Bike Cupertino Support this Project?

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Sidewalks are necessary for children to get to school safely

Many hundreds of students walk to Monta Vista, Kennedy Middle and Lincoln Elementary everyday. Without sidewalks, students are forced to walk in the street where it is much more dangerous, or to be driven to school. Even students that are driven to school each day are frequently let off near the school instead of at the school, so also require a sidewalk to safely arrive at school even if only a block away.

Reduces traffic, especially around schools

New and continuous sidewalks increase the likelihood that parents will allow their children to walk to school, reducing the traffic load around our schools and in our neighborhoods each day. Every child that walks (or bikes) to school is one fewer car on the road.

A greener Cupertino

Using alternative transportation, such as walking, and reducing pollution is great for everyone. This trail will result in fewer cars, less traffic, and cleaner air.

Increased exercise options and improved community connection

Families, seniors, and the entire community will enjoy the option to walk safely right in their neighborhood for healthy exercise.  When people are outdoors walking, they are more likely to see and socialize casually with their neighbors. This increases community health and connection for all residents.

Connectivity to parks

The new sidewalks connect to McClellan Ranch and the planned Linda Vista Trail, making access for residents easier for Linda Vista Park, Blackberry Farm, and the Stevens Creek Trail. This dramatically increases recreation options for residents who enjoy walking or running.