Santa Clara City Council reviews Measure I bond progress and upcoming initiatives

The Santa Clara City Council meeting on April 3, 2025, highlighted significant progress on community priorities, including infrastructure improvements and enhanced public services. Assistant City Manager Liz Klotz provided an update on the implementation of the Measure I bond, which has allocated $400 million for infrastructure projects, marking the city's first infrastructure bond since the 1950s. This initiative reflects the community's trust in local government and aims to address long-standing infrastructure needs.

Public Works Director Craig Moback discussed two key initiatives: the development of a bicycle policy and the installation of rainbow crosswalks, both of which were identified as priorities in previous council meetings. These efforts aim to promote sustainable transportation and inclusivity within the community.

Finance Director Ken Lee presented an overview of the city’s budget and a ten-year financial forecast, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility in supporting ongoing and future projects. The council's commitment to maintaining reliable infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents was evident in discussions about various completed and ongoing initiatives.

Among the notable accomplishments, the city successfully restored library hours and launched community events such as Comic Con, which attracted over 8,500 attendees. The council also reaffirmed its dedication to affordable housing by providing additional funding for the Bella Vita senior housing project and converting construction loans to permanent financing for several housing developments.

The meeting underscored the council's focus on community engagement and transparency, with plans to report biannually on the status of active projects. As the city navigates economic challenges, including a vacancy rate of 14% and the impacts of federal policies, the council remains committed to enhancing services and infrastructure that directly benefit Santa Clara residents.

Looking ahead, the council aims to streamline the city’s permit process and expand shuttle services for seniors and students, ensuring that the needs of all community members are met. The discussions from this meeting set a clear path for the city’s priorities, reinforcing the council's commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive community.