Santa Clara council approves $100 million first phase of Measure I infrastructure bond

The Santa Clara City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve the Phase 1 project list and initiate steps to issue the first series of Measure I general obligation bonds, an estimated $100 million tranche of a voter-approved $400 million program to fund public safety facilities, parks, storm drains and other infrastructure.

The vote follows a months-long staff process to prioritize projects that are construction-ready or near-ready and to sequence later phases for larger or more complex work. City staff told the council the Phase 1 list balances “project readiness and community impact” while preserving flexibility for subsequent bond sales in 2028 and beyond.

Measure I, approved by voters in November 2024 with roughly 69% support, authorizes up to $400 million in general obligation bonds for city infrastructure. City Manager Jovan Grogan and Assistant City Manager Elizabeth Klotz told the council staff coordinated across departments and with outside advisors to assemble the Phase 1 list and to comply with tax-law timing requirements that govern municipal bond proceeds.

Deputy City Manager Mark Freitas described how the administration grouped projects into categories and prioritized items that could move quickly. He told the council the Phase 1 package includes street resurfacing and ADA work, creek-trail repairs and wayfinding, two fire-station projects (beginning with Fire Station 5), police facility planning, several library and park upgrades and storm-drain work. “This first group of proposed projects certainly will make a positive impact to our community and ensure the reliability and functionality of our infrastructure,” Freitas said.

Finance Director Ken Lee outlined the financing calendar: council action tonight to approve the project list, preparation of the Preliminary Official Statement and a December 2025 rating presentation, followed by council approval of final bond documents in January 2026 and a targeted February 2026 closing. The initial bond levy on the property tax roll was set at $28.70 per $100,000 of assessed value when the council adopted a levy in June; staff said final debt-service schedules will be sized at the time of sale.

Public Works Director Craig Moback and others answered council questions about whether sidewalk repairs are funded through the resurfacing allocation and confirmed that ADA curb ramps tied to street projects are included; fully new sidewalk programs would remain a separate maintenance priority unless the council chooses to add funding.

Councilmember Gonzales made the motion to adopt the Phase 1 list; Councilmember Hardy seconded it. The motion passed unanimously. Staff was directed to establish a Measure I General Obligation Bond Projects fund and a Measure I General Obligation Bond Debt Service fund and to bring forward the budget amendments needed to begin project work.