Expanding Downtown Sunnyvale's Pedestrian Zone

The current pedestrian zone in downtown Sunnyvale is limited to one block of Murphy Avenue.

At a recent meeting of the Sunnyvale Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission (BPAC) on October 17, 2024, the most discussed item was a study issue proposal to expand the pedestrian-only zone in downtown. The current pedestrian zone is limited to just one block of South Murphy Avenue, and the BPAC was weighing a  proposal to extend it by turning a few adjacent streets into pedestrian zones as well. The streets under consideration include Murphy south of the current pedestrian zone, Washington, McKinley, and Olsen. The BPAC believes that expanding the pedestrian zone would make downtown Sunnyvale more walkable and attractive to visitors. It would also help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.

Some concerns were raised about potential impacts on deliveries and accessibility for customers who rely on vehicles. This is a common concern that often arises when pedestrianizing areas. However, the meeting also highlighted several strategies to mitigate these challenges:

• Designated Loading Zones: The city could establish clearly marked loading zones with specific time restrictions to ensure efficient deliveries while minimizing disruption to pedestrian traffic. This would require careful planning and coordination with businesses to understand their needs.

• Improved Wayfinding: Clear signage and wayfinding tools can help direct drivers to parking areas and loading zones outside the pedestrian zone, ensuring convenient access for customers and delivery services.

• Accessibility Considerations: It's crucial to ensure that the pedestrian zone remains accessible to people with disabilities. This includes providing accessible parking options nearby, maintaining smooth and unobstructed pathways, and considering the needs of those with visual or mobility impairments in the design of the zone.

One very interesting point that often gets overlooked in these discussions, is that we readily accept and even enjoy expansive car-free zones in places like shopping malls and school campuses, yet the idea of pedestrianizing downtown streets seems to generate more resistance. The same can be said about office complexes, even hospitals and clinics. Neither of those cater to drivers pulling up in a car to their destination office door. We just leave the car elsewhere and walk to our destination. The same access idea can be well implemented in downtown streets.

The block of South Murphy Avenue that is now permanently a pedestrian zone has garnered a lot of support from both residents and business owners, many of whom see this change as a net benefit. As a result, Sunnyvale should now be more open to reclaiming more downtown streets as vibrant public spaces where people can connect, shop, and enjoy their surroundings without the dominance of cars. Just as we embrace the car-free experience in malls and campuses, we can create a downtown that prioritizes people and fosters a sense of community.

After a discussion that lasted almost 2 hours, BPAC voted to sponsor this study issue proposal. In January 2025, BPAC will rank study issues within their purview including this one. In February 2025, Council will use BPAC's ranking to inform their prioritization of study issues in the annual Study Issues Workshop. You can provide public input at these meetings.

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About the Author

Alon Golan is a Board Member of Sunnyvale Safe Streets and a parent at Homestead High School.