Sunnyvale Ambitious Plans for 2024: In the coming year, Sunnyvale aims to tackle some of its most pressing challenges, ranging from homelessness support to the installation of new sports facilities. Here’s an overview of key projects on the city’s agenda:
Emergency Family Housing
Addressing homelessness, a pervasive issue in Santa Clara County, is a top priority for Sunnyvale. The City Council is reassessing its contract with HomeFirst, focusing on metrics related to reserved beds at the San Jose Boccardo Reception Center. Plans include relocating these beds to the Sunnyvale Family Shelter. The city has allocated funds to hire a homeless services manager, pending recruitment, to work on supportive services, overnight warming centers, and safe RV parking sites.
Guaranteed Basic Income
Sunnyvale is contemplating a pilot program to provide monthly checks to residents in need. Councilmembers support a guaranteed basic income initiative to assist low-income families, drawing inspiration from similar programs, such as the one launched in neighboring Mountain View.
New Sports Facilities
With the goal of renovating all 26 parks, Sunnyvale is exploring new sports facilities to cater to the growing popularity of pickleball and cricket. Challenges include finding suitable locations for cricket batting cages and considering opportunities for these facilities during park renovations.
Also Read: Homelessness Crisis in Silicon Valley: A Stark Reminder of Failures
Lakewood Library Branch
In North Sunnyvale, historically underserved, the city plans to construct its first library branch near the Lakewood Park redevelopment. Final permits were secured in September, and council approval is anticipated in the coming year, with the project scheduled for completion by late 2025.
Consolidating Mobile Apps
Sunnyvale currently maintains separate mobile applications for the Sunnyvale Public Library, Recyclables Right, and Street Sweeping. The city aims to consolidate these apps and potentially integrate other online services into a unified platform like Access Sunnyvale, streamlining resident services. While the app itself won’t be completed next year, plans are expected to be finalized for council approval by the end of 2024.
As Sunnyvale progresses on these initiatives, residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged through the city’s study issue site.
For more detailed information on the city’s full list of policy priorities and the projects mentioned, visit the city’s study issue site. Stay connected to the city’s developments as it works towards achieving these goals in the upcoming year.