Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Cupertino’s Incorporation
PLUS: HONORING VOLUNTEERS WITH COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS | GET READY FOR DISASTERS FOR EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS MONTH | SAVE WATER IN YOUR GARDEN
CONTENTS
03
A Look Back at 70 Years of Cityhood
From orchards to smart phones, read about the history of Cupertino as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the City’s incorporation.
05 70th Anniversary Community Service Awards
Recognizing outstanding service with the 2025 CREST Awards and Commissioners. Nominations are still being accepted for the 2025 CREST Awards!
06
The Artistic Side of Cupertino
Learn about Cupertino’s Arts and Culture Commission and the latest public art installations to discover.
07
Are You Prepared for Disasters?
September is Emergency Preparedness Month—read about what you can do to make sure you, your family, and your neighborhood are ready.
LOOKING AHEAD TO FALL
City Manager’s Letter
As we enter the final stretch of summer and begin preparing for the fall season, I want to thank you for your engagement and support these past months in making Cupertino an ideal place to live, work, and play in Silicon Valley.
This fall marks an important moment for our City. In October, we’re recognizing 70 years of cityhood—a chance to appreciate the changes and evolution of Cupertino and refocus on the work ahead. This past Spring, the City Council established a Strategic Vision to guide Cupertino’s future. This vision is built around six key goals: Public Engagement & Transparency, Transportation, Housing, Quality of Life, Environmental Sustainability, and Fiscal Strategy. These goals help us focus on the issues that matter most to residents and guide our decisions as we plan for the future.
In this issue, you’ll see how City staff are bringing the City Work Program projects to life through important projects such as economic development and small business revitalization, permit streamlining for home upgrades and a cashflow policy review to ensure we are prepared for the future. We’re also sharing stories that reflect both our progress and our direction as a City. As we celebrate 70 years since incorporation, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed. Cupertino has been shaped by the people who live and work here. Speaking of people, we are once again looking forward to recognizing residents and organizations who go above and beyond in serving our community at the 2025 CREST Awards. Looking ahead, September is Emergency Preparedness Month—a time to reflect on how we can all contribute to a safer and more resilient community. You’ll find helpful tips and resources in this issue to help you be ready.
In addition, I encourage you to take time to explore Cupertino’s growing arts and culture scene, which continues to enrich our community with color and connection.
Lastly, my updates to the council and the community are now available at cupertino.gov/citymanager. I enjoy hearing from community members. Get in touch with me at CityManager@cupertino.gov
Thank you for being a part of Cupertino’s story!
With gratitude,
Tina Kapoor INTERIM CITY MANAGER
Ribbon-cutting event for Jollyman Park All-Inclusive Playground attracts over 200 community members .
From adopting the City’s Fiscal Year 2025–26 budget to celebrating community traditions and milestones, this summer was filled with important moments for Cupertino. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights.
A Glance at the FY 25-26 Budget
This year marks a pivotal moment for Cupertino as we adopt the FY 25-26 budget and set a clear course for the future. The budget reflects our shared values of fiscal responsibility, strategic investment, and service to the community. It was shaped by thoughtful planning, strong collaboration, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.
The City’s approach is guided by a new Strategic Vision that defines six long-term goals to align policy decisions, budget priorities, and community outcomes. Building on that vision, the Budgeting Framework centers on three points: Restore, Protect, and Invest.
The FY 25-26 Adopted Budget totals approximately $136.1 million and supports key initiatives across all departments.
Explore the City’s budget and historical finances through the City’s OpenGov financial transparency portal at cupertino.gov/opengov
Jollyman Park All-Inclusive Playground Welcomes All
In June, the City hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Cupertino’s first All-Inclusive Playground at Jollyman Park, marking a major milestone in our commitment to accessible and inclusive public spaces. The celebration brought together over 200 community members featuring music from the Dream Achiever Band from Friends of Children with Special Needs, along with special guests who helped make this important project a reality.
Learn more about the project’s history and amenities at cupertino. gov/jollymanplayground or explore the interactive StoryMap at gis. cupertino.org/webmap/jollyman_storymap
Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month
In celebration of June as Pride Month, the City hosted its annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony in June to kick off the month’s festivities. We were honored to welcome community groups including Cupertino Library, Santa Clara County LGBTQ Affairs, Q Corner, and more along with a special performance by the Silicon Valley Gay Men’s Chorus.
Red, White, and Blue: Fourth of July Festivities
A big thank you to everyone who joined Cupertino’s Fourth of July Celebration! From morning pancakes to evening fireworks, we’re grateful to our community, volunteers, partners, sponsors, and staff who made it possible. Coordinated by the Parks and Recreation Department, the day brought families and neighbors together to celebrate Independence Day with local traditions and fun.
India Independence Day Flag Raising
On Friday, August 15, CupertinoBhubaneswar Sister Cities Inc. and the City hosted the 79th India Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony at Cupertino City Hall. The celebration featured vibrant cultural performances of dance and song reflecting the colorful and diverse traditions of India.
Aerial illustration of Cupertino’s early commercial hubs, showcasing shopping centers near Wolfe Road, Stevens Creek Boulevard, and Homestead Road—areas that would become key landmarks in the City’s retail development.
FROM ORCHARDS TO SMART PHONES AND BEYOND:
Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Cupertino’s Incorporation
Ever since its incorporation on October 10, 1955, the City of Cupertino has been a place that has brought pioneers from many cultures together as it continues to grow and adapt to each new era. In 1955, construction began on Cupertino City Hall—featured on this edition’s front cover—with the building formally dedicated in November 1966.
Over 125 years ago, the area had a thriving wine industry that proliferated on Montebello Ridge, the lower foothills, and the flat lands below. Sadly, a root louse called phylloxera struck the thriving wine industry and destroyed 75% of the vineyards in five years. Many farmers switched to prunes, peaches, apricots, cherries, plums, walnuts, and almonds. As these orchards flourished, the spectacular blossoms earned Cupertino the title “Valley of Heart’s Delight”.
In its early days, the settlement that sprang up at the crossroads of Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road and Stevens Creek Road (now De Anza and Stevens Creek boulevards), was called West Side. When the post office needed a new name because other towns had the same name, a San Francisco Lawyer and historian, John T. Doyle, suggested the name “Cupertino”, using the name of the nearby creek, which itself was named by the early expedition team led by Captain Juan Bautista de Anza
1776
Frontier explorers led by Captain Juan Bautista de Anza arrive and name the creek “Arroyo San Jose de Cupertino”, now called Stevens Creek.
1898
Historian John T. Doyle suggests the name “Cupertino”, and the City gets its name.
1912
Fanny Jollyman started the first official Cupertino branch of the Santa Clara County Library with 75 books on four shelves.
1955
Cupertino officially incorporates as Santa Clara County’s 13th city on October 10, 1955.
as “Arroyo San Jose de Cupertino”, now called Stevens Creek.
In the late 1940s, while fruit orchards bloomed and local businesses boomed, Cupertino was swept up in Santa Clara Valley’s postwar population explosion. The citizens in the Cupertino/Monta Vista area became increasingly aware that they were about to be gobbled up by the neighboring jurisdictions and piecemeal annexed to adjacent cities, which brought concerns of unplanned development, higher taxes, and a loss of the community’s identity. In 1954, the CupertinoMonta Improvement Association, a committee of local leaders, and the Fact-Finding Committee began a drive for incorporation. By a slim margin vote of 231 to 185, Cupertino officially became the 13th city in Santa Clara County. The new city had 3.76 square miles and an assessed value of $4 million.
Businesses continued to develop with the Cupertino General Store, blacksmithing, agriculture, and more. In the early 1960s, a major milestone in Cupertino’s development came with the creation of VALLCO Business and Industrial Park to make an orderly transition from farming to commercial expansion. By the 1970s, the Valley of Hearts Delight had emerged as Silicon Valley, as Apple Computer Inc. (now Apple Inc.) arrived in Cupertino in 1977.
In its 40th year in Cupertino, the company opened its stunning Apple Park campus on Pruneridge Avenue, not far from where cofounder Steve Jobs attended Homestead High School. Today, Cupertino is dominated by high-tech companies and numerous small businesses.
As the population continued to grow, more schools were needed in Cupertino. From just a handful of elementary schools in the 1960s, the Cupertino Union School District and Fremont Union High School District now boast 18 elementary schools, five middle schools, and four high schools in Cupertino.
The former Baldwin Winery estate property, located between McClellan Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard became the site of De Anza College in 1967 with 3,000 students. Today, the college serves over 21,000 students from around the world.
Cupertino is also home to many outstanding parks and open spaces, including Memorial Park, Jollyman Park, Creekside Park, and more. The historic Blackberry Farm is the site of the first settler’s cabin in Cupertino, built in 1846 by Captain Elisha Stephens— the namesake of a local creek, boulevard, and school. Blackberry Farm has seen generations of Cupertino residents swim and picnic alongside one of two golf courses in the city. History buffs can visit the California History Center at De Anza College or the Cupertino Museum in Quinlan Center to learn more about the City’s past.
Cupertino has a rich history of hard work, innovation, and strong community spirit. To all residents, happy 70th anniversary!
This article was contributed by the Cupertino Historical Society and Museum, which keeps Cupertino’s past and present heritage alive with information and artifacts that span settlement, agriculture, education, home life, and business. Learn more and plan your visit at cupertinomuseum.org.
1966
Cupertino City Hall is constructed with the dedication of its completion in November 1966.
1977 Apple Computer Inc. arrives in Cupertino, 40 years before building the famous Apple Park campus.
2008
The award-winning Don Burnett BicyclePedestrian Bridge is completed.
2025
Cupertino opens its first all-inclusive playground at Jollyman Park welcoming over 200 community members at its grand opening.
Built in 1892, the West Side Branch of the San Jose Home Union Store was a one-stop shop and sold essentials like groceries, coal, oil, and livestock feed.
The first official Cupertino School was Lincoln, which was built in 1865 on one-and-a-half acres.
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS IN CUPERTINO
RECOGNIZING SERVICE IN CUPERTINO
Nominate a Neighbor for the 2025 CREST Awards
The City of Cupertino will be hosting the Cupertino Community Service Awards on Wednesday, October 29 to recognize the outstanding contributions of our community members. This ceremony will recognize the winners of the 2025 CREST Awards (Cupertino Recognizes Extra Steps Taken), as well as Commissioners who serve on a City Commission. This year’s ceremony will also celebrate the 70th anniversary of Cupertino’s official incorporation as a city. A limited number of seats will be available at the October 29 event to the public, with registration opening in mid-September.
The 2025 CREST Awards will present the following award categories: Rising Star, Volunteer of the Year, Organization of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, and Hometown Hero.
Do you know someone making a positive difference in Cupertino? There’s still time to nominate a neighbor for a 2025 CREST Award! Learn more and submit your nomination by Friday, September 5 at cupertino.gov/crest.
ENJOY LOCAL FLAVORS FOR THE 70TH
Introducing Cupertino’s
First-Ever
Restaurant Week
In celebration of Cupertino’s 70th anniversary, the City is proud to announce its first-ever Restaurant Week, happening from Monday, October 6 to Sunday, October 12. This exciting new campaign invites the community to support local dining spots while enjoying exclusive promotions and specials from participating restaurants.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to dine out and spread the word to help boost the visibility of local businesses. Participating restaurants will offer limited-time deals and dishes created especially for the occasion.
Don’t miss this delicious way to connect with your community and celebrate Cupertino’s vibrant history and future. For more details and a list of participating restaurants, visit cupertino.gov/taste70. The full list of participating restaurants will be available on Monday, September 15.
Let’s eat local, celebrate local, and enjoy everything our Cupertino community has to offer.
Explore the Outdoors at McClellan Ranch Preserve in
Immersive AR
Experience
Tucked along the banks of Stevens Creek, McClellan Ranch Preserve has long been a favorite spot for locals seeking a quiet retreat into nature. Now, Cupertino’s beloved 18-acre preserve offers visitors something entirely new: an interactive experience that brings history and ecology to life through augmented reality (AR).
The McClellan Ranch AR Tour invites users to explore the preserve with an app that blends real-world scenery with virtual storytelling. Guided by Cooper, Cupertino’s friendly robot mascot, visitors can stroll a quartermile loop and learn about local wildlife. Along the way, they can tend a virtual garden bed, peek into the habitat of migratory fish in Stevens Creek, or discover the role of native plants in the meadow—all at their own pace. The free app is available in English, Mandarin, and Hindi.
For a deeper experience, the City also offers Join-A-Ranger: AR Guided Nature Walks, where knowledgeable Rangers lead small groups and provide additional insights. Learn more and download the app at cupertino.gov/McClellanAR
CAPTURING CUPERTINO THROUGH ART
Cupertino’s Arts & Culture Commission Programs
The City of Cupertino Arts and Culture Commission is a vital part of the local government’s mission to enhance artistic expression, cultural dialogue, and creative community life. Their mission is to “foster, encourage and assist in the realization, preservation and advancement of arts and culture for the benefit of the citizens of Cupertino.”
Artist Awards
Each year the Commission honors local talent via three categories:
Distinguished Artist Award
For established artists; winners receive a $1,000 cash prize.
Emerging Artist Award
For up-and-coming artists; includes a $750 award.
Young Artist Awards
For youth (ages 6–10 and 11–14) in visual arts.
Winning artwork is displayed at the Cupertino Library, and recipients are honored at a special ceremony held annually in January. The 2025 program continues the tradition of theme-based awards that foster creativity and build community.
Application deadline is Wednesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more at cupertino.gov/artawards
Public Art
Emergence: This art piece, created by Reed & Madden, is a stainless-steel structure topped with 12 laser-cut butterflies. Installed by developer Taylor Morrison along the Townhome portion of the Westport development, it sits beside a butterfly garden on Mary Avenue.
Kaleidoscope: Funded by Public Storage development fees, this interactive piece by
Scientific Art Studio, MIG, and Urban Art Projects was created for the City’s all-inclusive playground at Jollyman Park. The rotating sculpture casts colorful shadows and inspires nature exploration.
For a full list of the City’s Public Art pieces, cupertino.gov/ARTour Arts and Culture Commission webpage to keep up to date on agenda items.
GET PREPARED, STAY PREPARED
Get Ready for Disasters During Emergency Preparedness Month
September is Emergency Preparedness Month, a nationwide reminder that disasters can strike at any time. The best way to stay safe is to be ready. Whether it’s an earthquake, wildfire, or severe weather, taking simple steps now can protect you, your loved ones, and your community when it matters most.
The City of Cupertino uses an “All Hazards” approach to emergency preparedness. This means we plan for a wide range of hazards in a coordinated way, without duplicating efforts.
What Types of Emergencies Can Affect Cupertino?
Taking care of yourself and helping your neighbors can save lives and speed up recovery after a disaster. Preparing with those around you can help us save lives and quickly recover when disaster strikes.
Start with your neighbors. Are there specific needs or skills that they have? If you are asked to evacuate, does everyone have a vehicle, or will some people need a ride? Plan to take care of yourself and your community.
02 STAY INFORMED
Timely information can save lives. Sign up for emergency alerts at alertscc.org
You’ll get important updates specific to Cupertino and Santa Clara County. Help friends and neighbors sign up, too.
Also monitor:
Television Channel 26 (Comcast) or Channel 99 (AT&T)
Radio Cupertino 1670 AM
Explore local hazard risks through the Hazard Awareness Dashboard at gis.cupertino.org/webmap/eoc_dashboard_public.
City Website cupertino.gov/emergency
Santa Clara County Fire Department Firefighters host Touch-A-Truck for neighborhood kids at Cupertino National Night Out.
BUILD YOUR EMERGENCY KIT
• Food
• Water
• First Aid Kit
• Important Documents
• Flashlight
• Whistle
• Extra clothes
• Dust mask
• Something small to keep you entertained
• Extra chargers
• Cash (Small Bills)
Need Help Building a Kit?
Are you interested in building an emergency kit, but aren’t sure where to start?
Schedule a kit building workshop with your Block Leader and neighbors!
Workshops are about an hour each and provide some of the basics for your personal or household kit. Participants also learn what to be prepared for and how they will need to personalize their kits.
Not sure who your Block Leader is, or interested in becoming a Block Leader yourself? Learn more at cupertino.gov/blockleader
Cupertino Community Preparedness Program
The Cupertino Community Preparedness Program offers volunteer opportunities for residents to engage with the City and each other at their own pace.
Every resident’s level of engagement is a personal choice. Some may prefer receiving updates from the City, while others may want to host a block party, attend a preparedness exercise, or speak at a council meeting. Whatever your interest, there are meaningful ways to strengthen community resilience. Programs opportunities include:
Block Leader Program
Help connect neighbors and share updates from the City.
Neighborhood Watch
Receive a crime prevention orientation with your community
Cupertino Citizen Corps
Citizen Corps members are trained to assist in emergencies and support disaster response. Programs include:
• Cupertino Emergency Response Team (CERT): Learn basic disaster response and recovery skills. Sign up for the next CERT Training Academy through the Santa Clara County Fire Department’s website.
• Medical Reserve Corps (MRC): Licensed medical professionals ready to provide disaster-related support.
• Cupertino Amateur Radio Emergency Services (CARES): Support emergency communication.
Each program has different levels of involvement and training. Some residents join all three. You can participate as much or as little as you’d like. Many activities are held individually, while others are offered in joint sessions depending on the City’s goals and needs each year.
Want to Get Involved or Need Help?
To learn more about volunteering or scheduling a workshop, contact the City of Cupertino’s Office of Emergency Management at (408) 777-3335 or oes@cupertino.gov
Cupertino CERT team leads training academy with volunteers examining fallen wood.
DON’T
WAIT FOR THE RAIN
Are You Prepared for Floods?
For the past several years, California has experienced extreme weather patterns, from years of drought to intense rain events. The upcoming rainy season may not be currently forecasted as an exceptionally wet season, but any rain event has the potential to cause flooding to creeks, ditches, and even to neighborhood streets and properties. As we approach this year’s rainy season, residents should be mindful of any potential flood risks surrounding their property and be prepared for flooding possibilities, especially those who reside in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA).
The following tips will help you to plan, prepare, and protect your family and home:
• Know your flood risk: Visit floodsmart.gov and valleywater.org/floodready
• Get flood insurance ahead of time: There is a mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement if you live in a FEMA-designated SFHA and have a federally insured mortgage. Even if you don’t live in an SFHA, you can still purchase flood insurance. To find a local agent call (800) 427-4661 or visit floodsmart.gov
• Protect your property from flood threats: Valley Water offers free filled sandbags. Check valleywater.org/sandbags for locations.
• Build responsibly in floodplains: Construction within SFHA zones has special requirements. Physical alterations to buildings can be made to reduce risks and flood insurance premiums, such as elevating a structure.
• Keep creeks clean and flowing: Healthy, flowing creeks reduce flood risks by carrying storm water away from properties and roads. Report blockages and dumping in creeks to Valley Water at (408) 630-2378 or (888) 510-5151 anytime.
• Turn around, don’t drown: Avoid floodwaters.
• Make an emergency plan and a three-day emergency kit: Agree on a meeting spot and plan a safe route to higher ground. Put together an emergency kit with tools and supplies, non-perishable food, and water. Visit ready.gov/plan and ready.gov/kit.
• Download disaster emergency apps: Sign up for Santa Clara County’s emergency alert and warning system “AlertSCC” and download the American Red Cross Emergency App.
The following property protection advice and assistance services are provided by the City of Cupertino to further help residents prepare for potential flooding:
• Contact the Cupertino Public Works Department at (408) 777-3354 to check whether your house is in or out of a FEMA-designated SFHA, to get assistance with onsite flooding and drainage issues, or to schedule a site visit.
• City staff can provide FIRM information, a handout on the mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement, and maps showing floodways, problems not shown on the FIRM, and historical flood information.
• City staff possess elevation certificates for some buildings located in the floodplain and may have one on file for your property.
• When storm events are forecasted, visit the self-serve sandbag station just outside the City Maintenance Yard parking lot located at 10555 Mary Avenue to obtain free pre-filled sandbags.
• Contact the Cupertino Building Division at (408) 777-3228 to get a permit before you build within SFHA zones. Contact the Cupertino Public Works Department at (408) 777-3354 to ensure compliance with special construction requirements.
• It is illegal to dump anything into a creek or a storm drain in the City of Cupertino. Residents can report dumping incidents to the City by calling (408) 7773269 during business hours and 911 after hours and on weekends.
• Additional information on flood preparedness is available on the Cupertino website at cupertino. gov/floodpreparation
Concept rendering of a flooded kitchen with water covering the floor and furniture floating.
How we can work together to protect Cupertino from flooding:
• The City’s storm drainage system is composed of street gutters, storm drain inlets, and pipes that connect the inlets to local creeks. This system drains street runoff into the creeks and channels on the valley floor.
• Residents can assist the City and help protect your immediate neighborhood from localized flooding by sweeping gutters regularly, placing swept material in the garbage, and checking that nearby storm drain grates are not covered with leaves or litter. Residents should abide by street sweeping/no parking signs to allow the City to keep the gutters clean and the storm drain system flowing. Residents can also notify the City of blocked or impeded storm drainage facilities through cupertino.gov/311.
• In the fall, before the rain starts, City maintenance crews vacuum out City storm drain inlets, and check for any evidence of hazardous materials in the drains. This cleaning prevents any illegally dumped materials that may be sitting in the inlets from washing into our creeks with the first rains.
KNOW BEFORE YOU THROW
Cupertino Trash Rules: A Quick Guide for Residents
To keep Cupertino clean and safe, local law sets clear rules for trash and recycling. Here’s what you need to know:
KEY GUIDELINES
01 Sign Up for Service
Residents must register with the City’s waste provider within 10 days of moving in (unless exempt).
02 Weekly Pickup
Trash must be set out at least once a week. Dry recyclables can be stored for up to a month.
03 Use Proper Containers
• Only use City-provided bins.
• Keep lids closed except during use.
• Don’t overfill bins and sort waste correctly.
04 Follow Timing Rules
• Place bins out no more than 24 hours before or after pickup.
• If they block a bike lane, remove them within 12 hours post-service.
05 No Burning
Burning waste is not allowed.
These rules help maintain neighborhood appearance and property values. For more questions, contact the City’s Code Enforcement Division at (408) 777-3182 or code@cupertino.gov. Need help sorting? Visit cupertino.gov/waste or contact southbaywastezero@recology.com
KEEP YOUR GARDEN FLOURISHING
Water-Wise Gardening Tips
With warmer weather persisting into the fall, your garden may need more frequent water and additional shade. Follow these tips to conserve water and keep your yard beautiful:
Water in the early mornings and evenings when the sun is not out. The water won’t evaporate as quickly, so your plants can absorb more water.
Use mulch and compost around your plants to help protect the soil and retain water. The City offers free compost for Cupertino residents. Learn more at cupertino.gov/compostsite
Switch to climate adaptive plants through Valley Water’s Landscape Rebate Program, which can provide up to $3,000 to convert high-water use landscape to low-water use landscape. Learn more and apply at valleywater.dropletportal.com.
Banner part of the Active Transportation Plan Phase 1 campaign hung on metal fence at soccer field in Creekside Park.
Transportation Updates
BUILDING A CONNECTED CUPERTINO
Cupertino Moves Forward with Active Transportation Plan
Thank you to everyone who participated in the community outreach for Phase 1 of the Cupertino Active Transportation Plan (ATP) this spring! From March 19 to June 5, 2025, the City hosted 12 outreach events, engaging more than 1,300 residents and generating nearly 3,000 public comments. This input is playing a foundational role in shaping draft network concepts that will be refined and shared in the fall for further input.
The project has now entered Phase 2, which focuses on prioritizing infrastructure and program recommendations. City staff will host additional workshops and launch a new survey to collect feedback. Stay connected and learn more at cupertinoatp.org.
Upgrading Cupertino’s Streetlights for a Safer, Brighter Future
Cupertino streets are brighter and safer with the projects to replace streetlight poles and the City Lighting LED Improvements project. Replacing worn out poles enhances public safety by averting potential failures, and LED lights deliver a more luminous and directed light while conserving energy and reducing light pollution.
Between 2018 and 2024, 396 fluted poles were replaced, and now all fluted poles are replaced. The current focus is to replace steel streetlight poles with galvanized Type 15 poles, which are more stable and have less chance of corrosion. In 2024, 41 steel poles were replaced with Type 15 poles, and another 76 steel poles are in the process of being replaced in 2025-2026. The City Lighting LED Improvements project will upgrade over 2,000 streetlights to LED fixtures. This project is currently underway and scheduled to be complete by Fall 2025.
See the completed and upcoming improvements for streetlighting infrastructure with the Streetlight Improvements Story Map—a comprehensive visual representation to track street light upgrades at gis.cupertino.org/webmap/streetlight.
Ride Two-Ways on the New Lason Bikeway
The new Lawson Middle School Bikeway Project is complete, just in time for school to start!
This new, two-way separated bike path provides a safe and convenient way for students to get to the campus bike cages without crossing lanes of car traffic. During the morning dropoff and afternoon pick-up times, the sidewalks near the school are crowded with students and the streets around the school are crowded with cars. The bike path gives cyclists a separate, dedicated space, and keeps them away from cars on the road and pedestrians on the sidewalks.
Biker rides down newly completed twoway bike path at Lawson Middle School. This exciting infrastructure improvement for students is the City’s first two-way, on-street separated bike path! Drivers, please be mindful that parking around this area has changed.
All new things take time to adjust to. You can learn more about this bikeway and how to use it, as well as parking changes in the area at cupertino.gov/ lawsonbikeway.
It’s Back to School Season
Our students will soon return for another exciting school year of learning, experiencing, and growing. Of course, that journey starts on the way to school! Your school commute choices are more than just about getting from place to place. They can teach your students map reading skills, foster their independence, give them exercise to support their concentration in class, encourage them to make new friends, and help improve local air quality—all while avoiding that annoying school drop-off line!
The City of Cupertino’s Safe Routes to School team is continually updating its resources to prepare your family for the adventure of walking, biking, or carpooling to school. Find suggested routes to school and drop-off maps at cupertino.gov/schoolmaps.
For more resources, including tips on what to wear to help you stay safe, guidelines for deciding when your kids are ready to get to school on their own, and more, visit cupertino.gov/backtoschool.
Some school bell schedules have changed—be sure to check yours:
HIGH SCHOOLS: fuhsd.org/about-us/general-information/bell-schedule
A modern accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with light-colored siding and large windows, situated in a backyard.
Thinking About Building an ADU?
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also known as second units, granny units, casitas, or cottages, are allowed in all residential zones where single-family residences are allowed, supporting the City’s affordable housing goals.
ADUs have many benefits including:
Lower Cost to Build
ADUs are an affordable type of home to construct in California because they do not require paying for land, major new infrastructure, structured parking, or elevators and even impact fees, in some cases.
Income Potential
ADUs can provide a source of income for homeowners
Cost-Effective Construction
Most ADUs use wood-frame construction, whcih is significantly less costly than homes in new multifamily infill buildings
Efficient Use of Space
ADUs can be spacious enough to allow as much living space as newly built apartments and condominiums, and well-suited for couples, small families, friends, young people, or seniors.
Family Flexibility
ADUs can allow homeowners the flexibility to share independent living areas with extended family members or caregivers.
The City of Cupertino’s Planning Division will help ensure your project proposal complies with the zoning code and development standards. Learn more and get started at cupertino.gov/adu.
Cupertino second graders learning how to cross a street safely in the Walk Safe program
FALLING INTO FUN: CUPERTINO’S AUTUMN EVENTS
EVENTS CALENDAR
August
8 P.M.
FRIDAYS, AUGUST 8, 15, 22, 29
Movies in the Park
Creekside Park
10455 Miller Avenue
Experience movie magic under the stars at this free outdoor film series.
August 22: Rumble (2021), Rated PG
August 29: Wonder Woman (2017), Rated PG-13
PARKS AND RECREATION
8:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. SUNDAY, AUGUST 24
Middle School Bike Skills
Cupertino Senior Center
21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard Middle School Bike Skills
workshops prepare rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to bike to middle school and beyond. Bring a bike and helmet! Register at cupertino.gov/ saferoutes/msbs
10:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Senior Center Open House
Cupertino Senior Center
21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Explore the center’s programs and learn about upcoming classes and resources.
September
9 A.M. - 12 P.M. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Coastal Cleanup Day
Regnart Creek 10294 Parkside Lane
Help clean our waterways during this international volunteer event. Sign up at cleanacreek.org
8 A.M. - 12 P.M. SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
Environmental Recycling and Paper Shredding Day
Cupertino Senior Center
21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Drop off your e-waste, yard waste, paper for shredding, and more. No appointment necessary. cupertino.gov/environmentalday
& SUSTAINABILITY
& SUSTAINABILITY
9 A.M. - 4 P.M. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
Citywide Garage Sale
Various Cupertino Homes
Shop or host your own sale to help keep items out of the landfill. Shopping maps will be available starting Tuesday, September 16, with limited printed copies at the Cupertino Library, Quinlan Community Center, and Senior Center. Want to sell? Register by Friday, September 12. cupertino.gov/garagesale
& SUSTAINABILITY
Mother and two children post under balloon arch at 2024 Bike Fest
9 A.M.
- 1 P.M.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Fall Bike Fest
Civic Center Plaza
10350 Torre Avenue
Join the City’s 12th annual Fall Bike Fest to celebrate all things bike! Enjoy a day of free bike safety and education activities, group rides, art, and fun for all ages.
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PRORAM
October
10 A.M. - 3 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
Na Leo Mokupuni
Cupertino Community Hall
10350 Torre Avenue
Experience the rhythms of the Hawaiian Islands! Na Leo Mokupuni ma Cupertino, meaning “Island Sounds in Cupertino,” brings together performers to celebrate vibrant music and dance from island cultures. Register at reg4rec.org
PARKS AND RECREATION
9:30 - 11 A.M.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11
Join-A-Ranger: AR Guided Nature Walk
McClellan Ranch Preserve 22221 McClellan Road
Take a walk on the tech side!
Join a Stevens Creek Corridor Ranger for an interactive nature walk featuring the City’s new Augmented Reality app. Register at reg4rec.org.
PARKS AND RECREATION
3 P.M.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12
Golfing FORE Generations
Blackberry Farm Golf Course
22100 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Participate in a fun, familyfriendly golf tournament for all skill levels. Teams are encouraged to include multiple generations! Register at reg4rec.org
PARKS AND RECREATION
9 A.M. - 2 P.M.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
Hidden Treasures
Cupertino Senior Center
21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Discover hundreds of unique, gently-used items at this annual resale event! Item donations are accepted from Monday, August 4 to Friday, October 10. cupertino.gov/hiddentreasures
PARKS AND RECREATION ADULT 50+
10:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Compost Class
Cupertino Library 10800 Torre Avenue
Learn composting techniques for your own garden or landscape. Cupertino residents can get started with a free compost bin. cupertino.gov/compostclass
5:30 - 7 P.M.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
2025 Cupertino Community Service Awards
Quinlan Community Center
10185 N Stelling Road
The second annual Cupertino Community Service Awards will honor 2025 CREST Award recipients and outgoing City Commissioners while celebrating Cupertino’s 70th anniversary. cupertino.gov/crest
2:30 - 4:30 P.M.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
Halloween
Masquerade Dance
Cupertino Senior Center
21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Put on your favorite Halloween costume and join us for music, dancing, and our costume contest for a chance to win exciting prizes. Register at reg4rec.org
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADULT 50+
November
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
5 - 8 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Monster Mash
Quinlan Community Center
10185 N Stelling Road
Enjoy Halloween games, trickor-treating, spooky crafts, and take home your very own mini pumpkin. Register at reg4rec.org.
PARKS AND RECREATION
5 P.M.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6
Glow Night Golf
Blackberry Farm Golf Course
22100 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Join us for a glowing night on the green! Registration includes one LED night golf ball, glow sticks, and snacks. All skill levels welcome—just bring your swing! Register at reg4rec.org.
PARKS AND RECREATION
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City of Cupertino
Department
CITY DIRECTORY
Other Agencies
CUPERTINO CONNECT
Phone / Email
Building Department (408) 777-3228
Building@Cupertino.gov
Business License (408) 777-3221
BL@Cupertino.gov
City Clerk (408) 777-3223
CityClerk@Cupertino.gov
City Manager (408) 777-3212
Manager@Cupertino.gov
Code Enforcement (408) 777-3182
Code@Cupertino.gov
Planning Department ............................(408) 777-3308
