Cupertino Approves Affordable Housing for Disabled
The Cupertino City Council voted in favor of a measure to create affordable housing specifically for people with disabilities. The decision expands housing options for vulnerable populations within the city. This move signals a local government commitment to addressing specific housing needs in the community.
- The project, named Mary Avenue Villas, will be a 40-unit affordable housing community located on a 0.79-acre city-owned parcel of land adjacent to Highway 85. - Of the 40 apartments, 19 are specifically designated for adults and families with children who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. - This project is a collaborative effort between the City of Cupertino, developer Charities Housing, the Cupertino Rotary, and nonprofits like West Valley Community Services and Housing Choices for People with Developmental Disabilities. - The development has been a subject of debate for approximately 20 years, with a previous proposal for senior housing on the same site being denied. - To be eligible, residents must earn 50% or less of Santa Clara County's area median income. - The project faced opposition from some local residents, organized as the Garden Gate Coalition for Mary Avenue Safety, who raised legal challenges and concerns over the loss of 89 parking spaces. - The City Council's approval was a narrow 3-1-1 vote, with Councilmember R “Ray” Wang voting against and Vice Mayor Liang Chao abstaining. - If all proceeds as planned, construction could begin in November 2026, with completion anticipated by late 2027.
