Sunnyvale residents split on improvements to dangerous road

In Sunnyvale, a heated discussion is unfolding over proposed improvements to Tasman Drive as part of the city's effort to expand its bicycle network. Residents in the North Sunnyvale neighborhood are divided; while some, like Ari Feinsmith, advocate for bike lanes and sidewalks to improve cyclist safety, others, including Judy Pavlick, worry that reducing lanes will worsen traffic congestion during peak hours. The current design, which features two lanes in each direction, is complicated by the presence of the VTA Orange Line light rail, limiting available road space. A recent city survey revealed that half of the respondents prioritized adding missing sidewalk portions, reflecting a community desire for safer transit options. However, Pavlick's concerns about access for residents of the adjacent mobile home parks highlight the complexities of urban infrastructure changes.

The discussion emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to transportation planning that considers both cyclist safety and vehicle traffic flow. Elana Feinsmith, another resident, passionately argues that the proposed lanes could save lives, underscoring the personal stakes involved. As the city navigates these competing priorities, the outcome could significantly impact community dynamics in Sunnyvale.