The Sunnyvale City Council convened on July 29, 2025, to discuss significant changes to Tasman Drive aimed at enhancing pedestrian and bicycle safety. The proposed project involves evaluating the removal of a travel lane in both directions between Fair Oaks Avenue and Lawrence Expressway to install dedicated facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

Currently, this stretch of Tasman Drive lacks sidewalks and bike lanes, creating safety concerns for non-motorized users. The council reviewed two design alternatives: the first proposes a multi-use path that would allow both pedestrians and cyclists to share a raised pathway, while the second option suggests creating buffered bike lanes alongside new sidewalks. The latter option is favored for its ability to maintain emergency vehicle access, a critical concern raised by public safety officials.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community engagement, with extensive outreach conducted to gather feedback from residents, including visits to local mobile home parks. Traffic studies indicated that while the section between Fair Oaks and Vienna has manageable congestion, the area from Vienna to Lawrence experiences significant delays, particularly during peak hours and events at Levi's Stadium.

The council is considering a phased approach to implementation, with the first phase focusing on the Fair Oaks to Vienna segment, where concerns about congestion are less pronounced. The temporary lane closure, initially intended as a short-term measure during the pandemic, has been in place for five years and is not compliant with ADA standards. Staff recommended its removal to restore pre-pandemic conditions.

As the council deliberates, the outcomes of this meeting could significantly impact the safety and accessibility of Tasman Drive for all users, reflecting a broader commitment to improving community infrastructure and public safety. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the proposed designs and continued community input as the project moves forward.