As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Cupertino, residents gathered virtually for the Planning Commission Meeting on September 9, 2025. Among them was Lisa, a concerned neighbor who shared her observations of chaotic traffic near local schools. With a heartfelt plea, she urged the commission to prioritize safety for children navigating busy streets, highlighting the urgent need for educational initiatives on traffic rules and speed limits. “These cars are not respecting your bodies,” she lamented, emphasizing the dangers children face daily.

Following Lisa, Jennifer Sheeran, a longtime resident and board member of Walk by Cupertino, took the virtual stage. She expressed her gratitude for the community spirit displayed at a recent mayoral coffee event, but quickly pivoted to pressing issues surrounding the city’s Active Transportation Plan (ATP). Sheeran called for a focus on safety and accessibility, advocating for changes that would enhance school proximity points and eliminate subjective fairness metrics in project evaluations. “Creating a comet war is no way to set policy,” she asserted, urging the commission to adopt a data-driven approach that prioritizes the needs of pedestrians and cyclists.

The discussion continued with Irv Marcy, a member of the Bicycle Pedestrian Commission, who echoed the sentiments of his fellow speakers. He identified himself as a cyclist, pedestrian, and driver, emphasizing the importance of a balanced perspective in planning. Marcy’s insights underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to transportation that accommodates all modes of travel.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners listened intently, weighing the residents' concerns against the backdrop of Cupertino's evolving landscape. The discussions illuminated a community grappling with the challenges of growth and safety, as residents called for thoughtful policies that would ensure a safer, more accessible environment for all. With each voice contributing to the dialogue, the meeting served as a reminder of the power of civic engagement in shaping the future of Cupertino.