2.4.6 Potential Changes to Fire Risk in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
As noted previously, the risk of wildfires in Santa Clara County is highest in late summer and fall. Extreme weather conditions during periods of low humidity, low fuel moisture, and high winds contribute to the severity of any potential wildfires. Fires occurring during these times typically burn hot and fast and are difficult to control unless initial suppression occurs immediately. Wildfire for Cupertino is a concern given its Very High FHSZ designations, and proximity to surrounding LRA and SRA lands with wildfire risk.
Moreover, the community consists of, and is surrounded by, undeveloped hillsides to the west, which makes these areas a high risk for wildfire. Wildfires will continue to be a high-risk hazard for personal safety and property damage in Cupertino, and smoke impacts from local and regional wildfires will likely continue to be problematic. The likelihood of structural fires occurring in the city is low since these fires are usually the result of human accidents or mechanical issues in buildings. New developments are required to incorporate fire protection measures under the Fire Code, including enhanced requirements for structures in the Very High FHSZ.
Climate Change and Wildfire
Changing climate conditions are expected to increase the fire risk in and around Cupertino. Warmer temperatures brought on by climate change can exacerbate drought conditions. Droughts can kill or dry out plants, creating more fuel for wildfires. Warmer temperatures are also expected to increase the number of pest outbreaks, such as the bark beetle, creating more dead trees and increasing the fuel load.
Hot, dry spells may also increase disease and insect infestations, resulting in higher fuel loads. Increased winds will result in more erratic fire behavior, making fires harder to contain. Warmer temperatures are also expected to occur later in the year, extending the wildfire season, which is likely to begin earlier in the year and extend later than it has historically.
2.5 HAZARDOUS WASTE AND MATERIALS
Hazardous materials are materials that pose a significant risk to public safety, or human and environmental health. These include toxic chemicals, flammable or corrosive materials, petroleum products, and unstable or dangerously reactive materials. They can be released through human error, malfunctioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if a flood damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation because of vehicle accidents.
The release or spill of bulk hazardous materials could result in fire, explosion, toxic cloud, or direct contamination of water, people, and property. The effects may involve a local site or many square miles.
Health problems may be immediate, such as corrosive effects on the skin and lungs, or gradual, such as the development of cancer from a carcinogen. Property damage could range from immediate destruction by explosion to permanent contamination by a persistent hazardous material. Most hazardous materials in the region are transported on truck routes along major roadways, such as I-280 and SR-85 that pass through Cupertino. The most vulnerable areas along this route are considered the on-/off-ramps and interchanges. Since 1970, one reported roadway hazardous materials incident occurred in Cupertino. 13 The City adopted a Hazardous Materials Storage Ordinance that regulates the storage of hazardous materials in solid and liquid form. Since 1990, State law has required that hazardous waste be properly disposed of in approved hazardous waste treatment or disposal facilities. To accomplish this, new treatment methods and facilities have been developed and approved to pre-treat hazardous waste before its final disposal. Under the 1986 Tanner Bill (AB 2948) authority, Cupertino, along with 13 other cities, Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 35 joined the County to develop a comprehensive and coordinated planning approach to hazardous waste disposal. In 1990, a countywide Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program was created. To supplement the County’s HHW Program and make the collection of HHW more convenient for residents, the City currently provides a door-to-door hazardous waste retrieval service through its solid waste franchise agreement.
Hazardous materials and waste within Cupertino are managed by the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA), a local administrative agency within the County of Santa Clara Hazardous Materials Compliance Division. The CUPA consolidates, coordinates, and makes consistent the regulatory activities of several hazardous materials and hazardous waste programs, including Hazardous Materials Management, California Accidental Release Prevention, Hazardous Waste Management, Underground Storage Tanks, Aboveground Storage Tanks, and Emergency Response. The Santa Clara County Fire Department Fire Prevention Division provides hazardous materials inspection, services for building construction, annual building inspection, and hazardous materials regulation.
Several State agencies monitor hazardous materials/waste facilities. Potential and known contamination sites are monitored and documented by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). A review of the leaking underground storage tank (LUST) list3 produced by the RWQCB and the DTSC EnviroStor database14 indicates two active voluntary cleanup sites, one closed voluntary cleanup site, one certified school cleanup site, and three closed non-operating sites. The two active cleanup sites include the following:
Cupertino Village Cleaners at 10989 North Wolfe Road
Delia's Cleaners at 7335 Bollinger Road
If a hazardous material spill poses an imminent public health threat, the City will support local regulating agencies in notifying the public. The transport of hazardous materials/wastes and explosives through the city is regulated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). I-280 and SR-85 are open to vehicles carrying hazardous materials/wastes. Transporters of hazardous wastes are required to be certified by the United States Department of Transportation, and manifests are required to track the hazardous waste during transport. The danger of hazardous materials/waste spills during transport does exist and will potentially increase as transportation of these materials increases on I-280 and SR-85. Santa Clara County Fire Department, County of Santa Clara Office of Emergency Management, and County of Santa Clara Hazardous Materials Compliance Division are responsible for hazardous materials accidents at all locations within the city.
3 A review of LUST sites occurred on December 6, 2023.
2.5.1 Potential Changes to Hazardous Materials in Future Years Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Given that there has been one hazardous materials incident in transport through the city in the past 53 years and land use activities that would require hazardous materials are not likely to increase in the future, it is unlikely that a hazardous materials incident will occur in Cupertino on a frequent basis. Moreover, according to Caltrans, most incidents are related to releases of fluids from the transporting vehicles themselves and not the cargo, thus the likelihood of a significant hazardous materials release within the city is more limited and difficult to predict.
Climate Change and Hazardous Materials
Climate change is unlikely to substantially affect hazardous materials transportation incidents. However, increases in the frequency and intensity of climate hazards, such as floods, landslides, and severe storms, may create a greater risk of hazardous materials releases during these events. The two active cleanup sites mentioned are both within the 500-year floodplain and are at risk of hazardous materials releases.
2.6 CLIMATE CHANGE RESILIENCE
2.6.1 Air Quality
Air quality is determined by the composition of gases and particles in the atmosphere, and it is a critical aspect of environmental health. Air pollution comes from both mobile sources (e.g., cars, trucks, airplanes) and stationary sources (e.g., agricultural and industrial uses). The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has the responsibility to create strategies and monitor the targets set by State and federal standards for the Bay Area. Due to air quality planning efforts, regional air quality has improved significantly over the past several decades, even though the population, traffic, and industrialization have increased.
Cupertino is highly susceptible to poor air quality due to major highways and quarry activity adjacent to the city. Wind patterns and geographical features move air pollution from other areas, such as the San Joaquin Valley, and trap pollution in the Santa Clara Valley. From 2015 to 2019, Cupertino experienced 31 days where ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceeded State standards.15 Poor air quality poses significant health risks and can contribute to respiratory conditions such as asthma, increase the risks of heart attacks and stroke, and has been linked to various cancers. Children and youth, seniors, those with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable to health impacts from poor air quality and makeup over 41 percent of Cupertino’s population.
Poor air quality can also limit outdoor recreational opportunities. Poor air quality costs the Bay Area about $32 billion annually in premature deaths, medical events, decreased activity, and cancer.16 As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, outdoor recreation and key community services, such as public transit access, are highly vulnerable. Outdoor recreation can be curtailed due to poor air quality conditions from lower-level ozone, particulate matter, or wildfire smoke. Residents and visitors may not travel to parks or surrounding recreational areas if poor air quality creates negative health outcomes. Transit riders may be deterred from using public transit during days with poor air quality or high smoke days during wildfires, which could reduce the fares collected from transit riders.
Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 37 Wildfire Smoke
Increasing statewide fire frequency can create recurring air quality degradation events, leading to respiratory health effects. Wildfire smoke consists of a mix of gases and fine particulate matter from burning vegetation and materials. The pollutant of most concern from wildfire smoke is PM2.5, which is damaging to human health due to its ability to deeply penetrate lung tissue and affect the heart and circulatory system. Although wildfire smoke presents a health risk to everyone, sensitive groups may experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from exposure to wildfire smoke, such as children (particularly younger children), older adults, people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease, and low-resourced persons.
Potential Changes to Air Quality in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Poor air quality tends to occur annually and is likely to continue. Due to Cupertino’s proximity to major highways, quarry activity, and Santa Clara Valley’s geographical features, air quality will continue to be a concern.
Climate Change and Air Quality
Climate change will worsen air pollution.17 Ozone and PM2.5 form when other pollutants react in the atmosphere, and warmer temperatures speed up these reactions. Warmer temperatures also lengthen the growing seasons of plants and trees, increasing allergen production. In many regions of the United States, climate-driven changes in weather conditions, including temperature and precipitation, are expected to increase ground-level ozone and particulate matter (such as windblown dust from droughts or smoke from wildfires). These changes worsen existing air pollution. More wildfires will release particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. Drier conditions increase dust. Possible changes in wind patterns may also trap air pollutants in the Santa Clara Valley, increasing exposure.
2.6.2 Drought
A drought is an extended period when precipitation levels are well below normal. Drought may affect domestic water supply, energy production, public health, and wildlife; or contribute to wildfire. Like most of California and the western United States, Cupertino chronically experiences drought cycles. Drought impacts the city’s water supply, which may in severe instances make less water available for people, businesses, and natural systems.
Local ecosystems that are not well adapted to drought conditions can be more easily harmed by it. During drought events, the flow of water in creeks and streams is reduced, creating more slow-moving or standing water. This can concentrate sediment and toxins in the low water levels, causing harm to plants and animals. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, riparian habitat is highly vulnerable to the impacts of drought. Drought conditions can cause smaller streams to run dry, subsequently harming the plants and animal habitat within the ecosystem. Trees may not have adequate water during drought periods, which can lead to pests and diseases destroying important habitat. Droughts can also indirectly lead to more wildfires, stressing plants and making them more susceptible to pests and diseases.
The U.S. Drought Monitor recognizes a five-point scale for drought events: D0 (abnormally dry), D1 (moderate drought), D2 (severe drought), D3 (extreme drought), and D4 (exceptional drought). According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the most intensive drought in recent years occurred during most of 2014, when all of Santa Clara County was classified as “extreme” drought. More recently, in 2022, from January
through the end of the year, the county was also classified as being in “severe” drought. As of November 2023, Santa Clara County, including Cupertino, was not classified as drought. During severe drought conditions, water shortages are common, and water restrictions may be imposed to meet essential community needs. SCVWD’s 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan contains actions to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing a water shortage when it declares a water shortage emergency under the authority of the California Water Code.
Cupertino’s water supply comes from local and imported water. Local rainfall and runoff flow into reservoirs for storage and blend with imported water. The water is released into creeks and ponds to augment natural percolation and maintain groundwater levels. Some local surface water is processed at the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant. The treated water is sold to Cupertino’s two local water suppliers:
the California Water Company and the San Jose Water Company. Both local retailers purchase their water supply from SCVWD, which receives water from the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant and wells fed by groundwater.
SCVWD, the groundwater management agency in Santa Clara County, manages groundwater recharge through percolation ponds and in-stream recharge of creeks. The McClellan Pond recharge facility in Cupertino and the Stevens Creek Reservoir, outside the city on its southwest boundary, also contribute to Cupertino’s water supply. Private well owners, farmers, and water retailers use water pumped from the groundwater aquifer through wells.
The Rinconada Water Treatment Plant is the second largest of SCVWD's water treatment plants. The Rinconada Water Treatment Plant draws water from the South Bay Aqueduct and the San Luis Reservoir.
The San Luis Reservoir is a key component of the federal Central Valley Project, while the South Bay Aqueduct is a key component of the State Water Project system. The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta pumps into the Delta-Mendota Canal and then into the San Luis Reservoir. SCVWD is one of many users that draw water from this reservoir.
Approximately 50 percent of Santa Clara County’s water supply comes from hundreds of miles away – first as snow or rain in the Sierra Nevada range of northern and eastern California, then as water in rivers that flow into the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta or directly to water conveyance systems. Imported water is brought into the county through the complex infrastructure of the State Water Project, the federal Central Valley Project, and San Francisco’s Hetch-Hetchy system. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, water and wastewater services are highly vulnerable to the impacts of drought. Drought conditions may cause stress on Cupertino’s water suppliers and reduce the overall water supply available.
In some cases, water storage infrastructure, such as the San Luis Reservoir, may not provide adequate storage to provide water during drought periods.
Potential Changes to Drought in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Drought differs from many other natural hazards in that it is not a distinct event and usually has a slow onset. Drought can severely impact a region physically and economically, affecting different sectors in different ways and with varying intensities. Adequate water is the most critical issue for commercial and domestic use. As the population in the city continues to grow, so will the water demand. However, the water supply is currently considered adequate to meet projected water needs through the year 2045. As demonstrated in the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan, SCVWD shows sufficient capacity to Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 39 accommodate the demand through 2045 through a diversified and resilient portfolio that includes recycled water and conservation programs.
Based on historical information, drought in California, including Santa Clara County, is cyclical, driven by weather patterns. Drought has occurred in the past and will occur in the future. Periods of actual drought with adverse impacts can vary in duration, and the period between droughts is often extended. Although an area may be under an extended dry period, determining when it becomes a drought is based on comparing observed precipitation with what is normal (climatologic), comparing soil moisture and crop conditions with what is normal (agricultural), or by looking at how much water is contained in snow, the level or flow rate of moving water, water in reservoirs, or groundwater levels (hydrologic). However, how individuals recognize drought depends on how it affects them.
Climate Change and Drought
Although droughts are a regular feature of California’s climate, scientists expect climate change will lead to more frequent and intense droughts statewide. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to stay similar to historic levels in Cupertino, potentially increasing by the end of the century. However, there are likely to be more years with extreme levels of rainfall, both high and low, because of climate change. This is expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts, compared to historical norms, which cause soil to dry out and become hard. When precipitation does return, more water runs off the surface than is absorbed into the ground, which can lead to flooding downstream. Higher air temperatures are expected to increase evaporation, causing more water loss from lakes and reservoirs, exacerbating drought conditions.
Reduced winter precipitation levels and warmer temperatures have greatly decreased the size of the Sierra Nevada snowpack (the volume of accumulated snow), making less fresh water available for communities throughout California, including the imported water supply for Cupertino. A continued decline in the Sierra Nevada snowpack volume is expected, which may lead to lower volumes of available imported water. Depending on the location and emissions levels, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the snowpack (i.e., snow water equivalent) for the Tahoe-Sierra Integrated Regional Water Management Region in the spring is expected to decline from a historical average of 16.1 inches to an average of 7.8 inches (a 52 percent decrease) by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 2.9 inches (an 82 percent decrease) by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).18 If heat-trapping emissions continue unabated, more precipitation will fall as rain instead of snow, and the snow that does fall will melt earlier in the year, reducing the Sierra Nevada spring snowpack by as much as 70 to 90 percent.18 The loss of snowpack would pose challenges to water managers and hamper hydropower generation.
2.6.3 Extreme Heat
While there is no universal definition of extreme heat, California guidance documents define extreme heat as temperatures hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. Days that reach this level are called extreme heat days. In Cupertino, the extreme heat threshold is 93.2°F. A heat wave is an event with five extreme heat days in a row.
Health impacts are the primary concern with these hazards, though economic and service impacts are also an issue. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes extreme heat as a substantial public health concern. Historically, NOAA data indicates that about 175 Americans succumb
to the hazards of summer heat, although this number has increased in recent years.19 From 2004 to 2018, studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate that there is an average of 702 deaths annually that are directly or indirectly linked to extreme heat.20 In 2019, Santa Clara County reported an extreme heat event from June 9th to the 11th. The combination of high pressure and offshore solid flow resulted in an early season heat wave across the Bay Area.
Multiple daily records were broken across the region due to the heat. Three fatalities were reported during the heat event; one person died as a direct result of heat-related illness, while two others drowned while attempting to cool down during the heat wave.
In 2021, Santa Clara County reported an extreme heat event from July 9th to the 11th. Daytime highs rose above 100°F. Overnight lows remained warm, particularly across higher elevations with temperatures between 70°F and 80°F in the early mornings. There were no reported fatalities as a result of this heat event.
Extreme heat events are dangerous because people exposed to extreme heat can suffer several heatrelated illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and (most severely) heat stroke. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, seniors, persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, persons experiencing homelessness, outdoor workers, low-resourced people of color, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, and households in poverty are the most vulnerable to extreme heat. Nursing homes and adult care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures if power outages occur, and air conditioning or heating is not available. In addition, households in poverty may be at increased risk of extreme heat if the installation or use of air conditioning and heating is not affordable. Outdoor workers in construction or landscaping are also much more exposed to the elements than most people, so they are more susceptible to extreme heat conditions and the potential illnesses associated with very high temperatures. Moreover, extreme heat may be highly damaging to outdoor recreational activities, such as running, bicycling, and hiking. Intense physical exertion is more dangerous during very high temperatures, as people must regularly stay hydrated and not overexert themselves to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Most homes in Cupertino are older and were constructed over 40 years ago. Given that approximately 66 percent of all housing in the city was built prior to 1980, 21 some of these homes are unlikely to have air
conditioning and may lack effective insulation to regulate indoor temperatures. During extreme heat days, temperatures in poorly insulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures. Therefore, people living in these homes, especially vulnerable populations, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses from extreme heat events.
Streets and sidewalks are also well-shaded throughout many parts of the city. Trees and vegetation in urban forests are most useful as an extreme heat reduction strategy when planted in strategic locations around buildings or to shade pavement in parking lots and streets. Trees and vegetation help to lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade and evapotranspiration. Evapotranspiration, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2°F to 9°F. 22, 23 Very high temperatures can harm plants and animals that are not well adapted to these events, including natural ecosystems. Extreme heat can increase water temperature in lakes, streams, creeks, and other water bodies, especially during drought conditions when water levels are lower. In some cases, water temperatures may exceed comfortable levels for several plants and animals, causing ecological harm.
Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 41 As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, energy delivery and communication services are highly vulnerable to extreme heat. Extreme heat can regularly cause power outages due to a combination of mechanical failure of electrical grid equipment, heat damage to the wires themselves, and high demand for electricity as a result of cooling equipment, all of which causes stress on the grid. Indirectly, extreme heat stresses power lines, causing them to run less efficiently. The heat also causes more demand for electricity (usually to run air conditioning units), and in combination with the stress on the power lines, may lead to brownouts and blackouts.
Potential Changes to Extreme Heat in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Extreme heat tends to occur on an annual basis and is likely to continue occurring. Due to Cupertino’s inland location south of San Francisco Bay and relatively low elevation, high temperatures will continue to be a more common than cold temperatures.
Climate Change and Extreme Heat
The warmer temperatures brought on by climate change are likely to cause an increase in extreme heat events locally. Depending on the location and emissions levels, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the number of extreme heat days is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 to 14 days by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 24 days by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).24 Overall, Cupertino is expected to see an increase in the average daily high temperatures. Depending on the future severity of climate change, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the annual average maximum temperature is expected to increase from a historical annual average of 69.4°F to an average of up to 73.5°F by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of up to 76.5°F by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).2 Although the temperature increases may appear modest, the projected high temperatures are substantially greater than historical norms. These increases make it more likely that an above-average high temperature will cross the extreme heat threshold. As temperatures increase, Cupertino residents, employees, and visitors will face increased risk of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress caused by extreme heat.
2.6.4 Severe Weather
Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but usually occurs in Cupertino as localized storms that bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although types of strong winds can occur without a storm. The types of dangers posed by severe weather vary widely and may include injuries or deaths, damage to buildings and structures, fallen trees, roads and railways blocked by debris, and fires sparked by lightning. Severe weather often produces high winds and lightning that can damage structures and cause power outages.
Lightning from these storms can ignite wildfires and structure fires that can cause damage to buildings and endanger people. Objects such as vehicles, unprotected structures (e.g., bus stops, carports), fences, telephone poles, or trees can also be struck directly by lightning, which may result in an explosion or fire.
A relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California is often referred to as an atmospheric river. Atmospheric rivers can be associated with severe weather in the following ways:
Heavy precipitation: Atmospheric rivers can bring large amounts of moisture to a region, which can lead to heavy precipitation and flooding. This level of precipitation can be especially
problematic in areas with steep terrain or poor drainage, where the water can accumulate quickly and cause damage.
Landslides: Heavy precipitation associated with atmospheric rivers can also increase the risk of landslides and debris flows in areas with steep terrain. This risk is because the excess water can saturate the soil and destabilize slopes, leading to landslides or rockfalls. High winds: In addition to heavy precipitation, atmospheric rivers can also be associated with strong winds. This risk increase because the strong temperature contrast between the warm, moist air in the atmospheric river and the cold air surrounding it can lead to the formation of strong low-pressure systems and high winds.
A thunderstorm is a rain event that includes thunder and lightning. According to NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory, a thunderstorm is classified as “severe” when it contains one or more of the following:
hail with a diameter of one inch or greater, wind gusts exceeding 57.5 miles per hour (mph), or tornado.
However, tornadoes are uncommon in Santa Clara County; only six have been recorded in the county since 1950.
High winds, often accompanying severe storms, can cause significant property damage, threaten public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss. High winds, as defined by the National Weather Service, are sustained wind speeds of 40 mph or greater lasting one hour or longer or wind gusts of 58 mph or greater for any duration. These winds may occur as part of a seasonal climate pattern or in relation to other severe weather events, such as thunderstorms.
All wind events pose several different types of threats. By themselves, the winds threaten the health of people and structures in Cupertino. Dust and plant pollen blown by the wind can create breathing problems. The winds can blow roofs off buildings and cause tree limbs to fall on structures. High winds also increase the threat of wildfires. Winds may dry out brush and forest areas, increasing the fuel load in fire-prone areas. Winds may spark wildfires by knocking down power lines or causing them to arc, creating sparks. If wildfires do start, high winds can push flames quickly into new areas, contributing to the rapid spread of wildfires and making them harder to control.
As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, energy communication infrastructure, energy delivery and communication services, homes and residential structures, and public transit access are highly vulnerable to severe weather. Electricity transmission and distribution lines can be damaged or destroyed by highvelocity winds. This can cause secondary impacts, such as power outages, which would impact Cupertino residents and businesses. Homes, particularly older ones, may be constructed to less rigorous standards and/or may not be well maintained. This can increase their risk of damage during severe weather events, particularly high winds, and hail. High winds could disrupt energy delivery, causing the electrical grid to not function properly. If multiple sections or elements of the system fail (substations, power plants, electricity lines), City residents and businesses could be without power for hours, days, or weeks if severe.
Communication services may be knocked out by severe weather that damages communication towers.
Public transit access may be delayed or rerouted if roadways become impassable due to storms and other severe weather. If roadways completely fail, the transit services could be suspended for days or weeks.
Public Safety Power Shutoff Events
Electricity utilities throughout California, including PG&E, have begun to occasionally “de-energize”, or turn off the electricity for power lines that run through areas with an elevated fire risk. PSPS events are intended to reduce the risk of power lines sparking or being damaged and starting a wildfire. As previously Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 43 described, these activities, called PSPS events, result in a loss of power for customers served by the affected power lines. A PSPS event may occur at any time of the year, usually during high wind events and dry conditions. PSPS events may be limited to specific communities or affect broad swaths of the state. In October 2019, PG&E conducted one large-scale PSPS event, shutting off power to approximately 740,000 customers in 35 counties across the state, including customers in Cupertino. Several PSPS events also occurred in 2020 during widespread wildfires across northern California. While PSPS events have been smaller and less frequent recently, these events still pose a risk to PG&E customers across Santa Clara County, including Cupertino.
PSPS events can impact emergency management activities. A loss of power can make it more difficult for homes or businesses to receive emergency notifications. PSPS events can also create vulnerabilities for community members who lack backup power supplies and depend on electricity for heating or cooling homes and buildings, medical devices, lighting, and the internet. Additionally, community members may face economic hardships and be deprived of important services, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and banks/ATMs. Traffic lights and other traffic-control systems may not work, which can complicate evacuation needs and hinder emergency response. Although critical public health and safety facilities often have backup generators, the loss of power may also disable other key infrastructure systems.
Potential Changes to Severe Weather in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
According to historical hazard data, severe weather is an annual occurrence in Santa Clara County.
Damage and disaster declarations related to severe weather have occurred and will continue to occur in the future. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are the county's most frequent type of severe weather occurrences. Wind and lightning often accompany these storms and have caused damage in the past.
However, damage associated with severe weather's primary effects has been limited. The secondary hazards caused by severe weather, such as floods and fire, have had the greatest impact on the county.
In general, any severe storm that affects Santa Clara County has local effects in Cupertino as well.
Thunderstorms, high winds, and lightning can each have localized impacts on infrastructure, properties, and public safety.
Climate Change and Severe Weather
Climate change is expected to cause an increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems, such as atmospheric rivers. This increase means that Cupertino could see more intense weather resulting from these storms in the coming years and decades, although such an increase may not affect all forms of severe weather. While average annual rainfall may increase only slightly, climate change is expected to cause an increase in the number of years with intense levels of precipitation. Heavy rainfall can increase the frequency and severity of other hazards, including flooding.
2.6.5 Human Health Hazards
Human health hazards are bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other organisms that can cause diseases and illness in people. Some of these diseases may cause only mild inconvenience, but others are potentially life-threatening. These diseases can be and often are carried by animals, such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Warmer temperatures and high precipitation levels can lead to increased populations of disease-carrying animals, creating a greater risk of disease and increased rates of infection.
Populations most vulnerable to human health hazards are those who spend a disproportionate amount of time outdoors (such as outdoor workers or persons experiencing homelessness), those with fragile
immune systems or existing illnesses (which may include persons with chronic illnesses and seniors), and those who may live in sub-standard housing or not have access to health insurance and medical care (households in poverty, low-resourced people of color, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, and cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households). These persons may be living in conditions that increase their chances of catching vector-borne illnesses, lack the ability to fight off infections that may occur, or lack the financial resources to seek timely medical care. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, several groups within Cupertino’s population are vulnerable to human health hazards, such as households in poverty, immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons, low-resourced people of color, outdoor workers, persons experiencing homelessness, persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, and seniors. According to the 2023 MJHMP, 9 past occurrences of human health hazards in
Santa Clara County since 2018 include COVID-19, Lyme disease, Valley Fever, and West Nile Virus.
Potential Changes to Human Health Hazards in Future Years Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Human health hazards have occurred in the past and, therefore, will likely occur in the future at various scales and levels of severity.
Climate Change and Human Health Hazards
Increases in average temperature and changes in precipitation patterns favoring larger precipitation events may facilitate the growth and activity of disease-carrying vectors. Many of the vector-carrying organisms thrive in warmer and wetter conditions. The overall risk of human health hazards is thus expected to increase.
Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 45
3.1 OVERVIEW
The Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment analyzes how climate-related hazards may harm the community using the four-step process recommended in the California Adaptation Planning Guide. Figure S-10 illustrates the recommended four-step process. This analysis describes the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt.
Figure S-10 California Adaptation Planning Guide Vulnerability Assessment Process The Vulnerability Assessment considers the threats from all relevant natural hazards, which are events or physical conditions that have the potential to cause harm or loss and will emphasize changes to hazard frequency and severity due to climate change. The Vulnerability Assessment includes eight climate-related hazards: air quality and smoke, drought, extreme heat, flooding, human health hazards, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. The Vulnerability Assessment assesses 45 different population groups and community assets facing potential harm from the hazards. This assessment includes the risk of physical damage to buildings and infrastructure, the social vulnerability of persons likely to be disproportionately harmed by hazards, potential disruption to the city’s economic engines, and loss of essential services.
Step 4: Prioritize Vulnerability
Determine how susceptible a population or asset is to harm from a particlar hazard.
Step 3: Assess Adaptive Capacity
Assess the ability of populations and community assets to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impacts of climate change using existing resources and programs.
Step 2: Identify Sensitivities and Potential Impacts
Identify populations and assets Evaluate potential impacts of each relevant hazard Step 1: Identify Exposure
Characterize the community’s exposure to current and projected climate change hazards
3. VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT RESULTS
3.2 ITEMS INCLUDED IN THE CUPERTINO VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT The City included the following populations and other assets in the Vulnerability Assessment. Each list includes a description and source of data needed to support the Vulnerability Assessment.
3.2.1 Populations
The City collected population data from the U.S. Census (American Community Survey and Decennial Census), the California Healthy Places Index, and the Santa Clara County Homeless Point-in-Time Count.
The American Community Survey data is an estimate only with some margin of error. The 16 populations evaluated include:
1. Children and youth (under 18).
2. Cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households: households paying 30 percent or more of their income towards housing expenses.25 The State identifies $131,750 as the low-income threshold for a household of four people in Santa Clara County in 2022.26 Six percent of Cupertino residents earn incomes at or below poverty level.27 Overcrowded households include housing units that have 1.0 persons or more per room (excluding bathrooms and kitchens).
3. Households in poverty: households with an income below the poverty line, which is $27,750 for a household of four.28
4. Immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons: Communities consisting of foreign-born populations, including immigrants, refugees, and undocumented persons. Linguistically isolated persons include households without a member who is fluent in English. Chinese, Hindi, and Japanese are the primary languages in Cupertino among households that are not fluent in English.29
5. Low-resourced people of color: Persons identifying as a member of a racial and/or ethnic group and facing limited access to resources, such as financial, social, healthcare, or educational assistance.30,31
6. Outdoor workers: Workers in landscaping, construction, outdoor recreation, etc.
7. Persons experiencing homelessness: 2022 Point-in-Time count reported 102 total persons experiencing homelessness (all unsheltered) within the City of Cupertino.32
8. Persons living on single-access roads (roads with only a single entry or exit point). Single-access roads are generally to the west, near the hillsides of the community.
9. Persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities.
10. Persons without a high school degree.
11. Persons without access to lifelines: Persons without reliable access to a car, transit, or communication systems.
12. Renters.
13. Seniors (age 65 and older). Seniors constitute 15 percent of Cupertino’s population.33
14. Seniors living alone.
15. Students.
16. Unemployed persons.
3.2.2 Infrastructure
The City gathered details on infrastructure from State and local GIS data, and the 2023 Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. These seven asset groups are:
1. Energy and communication infrastructure:
a. Transmission Lines: PG&E
b. Natural gas pipelines and structures: PG&E
c. Cell towers, radio sites, fiber-optic lines, and internet lines Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 47
2. Flood-control and stormwater infrastructure
3. Vehicle fuel stations
a. Electric vehicle charging stations: 13 public charging stations b. Gas stations
4. Hazardous materials sites: 13 cleanup sites
5. Transportation infrastructure
a. Freeways: I-280
b. State highways: SR-85
c. Local roads: Stevens Creek Boulevard, North De Anza Boulevard, South De Anza Boulevard, North Wolfe Road, Miller Avenue, North Stelling Road, South Stelling Road, McClellan Road, Steven Canyons Road, South Foothills Boulevard, Rainbow Drive, Bubb Road, Prospect Road, Bollinger Road, North Blaney Avenue, South Blaney Avenue d. Bridges and culverts: Seven local bridges
e. Transit facilities: Valley Transportation Authority stops f. Railway: Union Pacific Railroad
6. Parks, Open Space, and Trails
a. Community Parks: McClellan Ranch, McClellan Ranch West (Simms Property), Blackberry Farm Park, Blackberry Farm Golf Course, Franco Park, Memorial Park, Sports Center, Mary Avenue Dog Park, Cali Mill Plaza Park, Civic Center Park, Library Plaza, Civic Center Plaza, Main Street Park Easement, Town Square Easement, Little Rancho Park b. Neighborhood Parks: Linda Vista, Varian Park, Monta Vista, Villa Serra, Sommerset Square, Jollyman, Wilson Park, Library Field, Creekside, Sterling Barnhart, Portal Park, Three Oaks, Hoover
c. Open Space Areas: Stocklmeir Ranch, Stevens Creek Trail, Oak Valley, Canyon Oak Park
7. Bicycling and pedestrian trails.34, 35, 36
8. Water and wastewater infrastructure: California Water Service (north of Stevens Creek Boulevard), San Jose Water (south of Stevens Creek Boulevard), Cupertino Sanitary District, San José-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility.
3.2.3 Buildings
The City collected buildings data from Google Maps, the California School Database, and local agency websites and GIS records. These six assets are:
1. Government and community facilities: Cupertino City Offices, Cupertino Emergency Operations Center, Quinlan Community Center, Cupertino Library, Cupertino Senior Center, and Cupertino Sports Center
2. Commercial centers: Homestead Square Shopping Center, De Anza Shopping Center, Main Street Cupertino, the Crossroads, the Marketplace, and Cupertino Village
3. Medical and care facilities: Kaiser Permanente, Urgent Care Cupertino, Sunshine Health Care Center, Sacred Heart Clinic, Foothill Medical Clinic, Prairie Health, Golden Apple Medical Group, and adult care and senior living facilities
4. Homes and residential structures: Multifamily and single-family residences
5. Public safety buildings: Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and Santa Clara County Fire Department (Cupertino Fire Station)
6. Schools: Cupertino Union School District (20 elementary schools and 5 middle schools), Fremont Union High School District (Cupertino High School, Homestead High School, and Monte Vista High School), De Anza College, and private schools (Monta Vista Christian School, Stratford School - Cupertino Raynor Campus, St. Joseph of Cupertino School, West Valley Christian School, Villa Montessori)
3.2.4 Economic Drivers
The City determined important economic assets based on the 2021 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and land uses within the city. These five assets are:
1. Major employers: Apple Inc., Cupertino Union School District, Corinthian International Parking Services, Synophic Systems Inc., and De Anza Community College District
2. Education services
3. Technology, research, and development
4. Commercial and retail centers
5. Outdoor recreation
3.2.5 Ecosystems and Natural Resources
The City determined the ecosystems and natural resources based on information from the Environmental Resources Element of the General Plan. These four resource types include:
1. Riparian
2. Grasslands
3. Brushlands
4. Foothill Woodlands and Forests
3.2.6 Key Services
These assets are based on typical services provided in cities throughout California, which are supported by the infrastructure and buildings listed previously. Key community services include the operation and functions needed to provide and maintain services. The Vulnerability Assessment assesses the infrastructure and people needed to support them separately. These seven services are:
1. Education services: Cupertino Union School District, Fremont Union High School District, private schools, and childcare.
2. Emergency services: Emergency Operations Center, Santa Clara County Fire Department, and Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office
3. Energy delivery and communication services: Silicon Valley Clean Energy, PG&E, radio, television, cellular and landline phone, and internet
4. Government administration and community services
5. Public transit access: Valley Transportation Authority Bus Routes
6. Solid waste removal: Recology South Bay
7. Water and wastewater: California Water Service (north of Stevens Creek Boulevard), San Jose Water (south of Stevens Creek Boulevard), and Cupertino Sanitary District Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 49
3.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT RESULTS
Table 5-1 shows the results of the Vulnerability Assessment prepared for Cupertino, in accordance with the requirements of Senate Bill 379. For each population or asset that may be vulnerable to each climaterelated hazard, the population or asset is scored on a scale of low to high. The vulnerability scores reflect both the severity of climate-related impacts and the ability of populations and assets to resist and recover from these effects. The City assessed 287 different pairings for vulnerability, 89 of which scored as highly vulnerable. The following matrix provides the scores for each population and assets to each relevant hazard. Gray cells with a dash (-) indicate that a specific hazard is not applicable to a specific population or asset, and therefore was not scored. Refer to the “Climate Change” and “Vulnerable Populations and Assets” sections of the Health and Safety Element for additional details on the Vulnerability Assessment method.
Table S-1. Vulnerability Assessment Results
Populations & Assets
Hazards
Air Quality and
Smoke Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Landslides Severe Weather Wildfire Populations
Children and youth (under 18) High Low High Medium Medium - Medium Medium Medium Cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium - Low Medium Medium Households in poverty High Medium High High High - Medium High High Immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons Medium Medium High Medium High - High High High Low-resourced people of color Medium Medium High High High - Medium High Medium Outdoor workers High Medium High Medium High - Medium Medium High Persons experiencing homelessness High Medium High High High - Low High High Persons living on single access roads (roads with only a single entry or exit point) Low Low Low High Low - High High High Persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities High Medium High High High - High High High Persons without a high school degree Low Low Low Medium Low - Low Low Low Persons without access to lifelines Medium Low High High Medium - Medium Medium Medium Renters Medium Low Medium High Low - Medium Low Low
Seniors (65+) High Low High High High - Medium Medium High Seniors living alone High Low High High High - High High High Students Low Low Low Medium Low - Low Medium Medium
Unemployed persons Low Low Medium Medium Medium - Low Medium Medium Buildings and Infrastructure
Government and community facilities - - Low Medium - - - Low - Commercial centers - - Low Medium - - - Medium -
Energy and communication infrastructure - - High - - - High High - Flood control and stormwater infrastructure - - - High - Low Medium Medium Low Vehicle fuel stations - - Low Medium - - - Low -
Hazardous materials sites - - - Medium - - - Medium -
Transportation Infrastructure - - Low High - High Medium Medium Medium Medical care and assisted living facilities - - Low Low - - Low Medium - Homes and residential structures - - Medium High - - Medium High Medium Parks, Open Space, and Trails - High Medium Low - - Medium Medium Medium Public safety buildings - - Low Medium - - - Medium -
Schools - - Medium High - - Low Medium -
Water and wastewater infrastructure - Medium Low High - - High Low Low Economic Drivers
Major employers - Low Medium Medium Medium - - Low -
Education services Medium Low Medium Medium Medium - Medium Medium - Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 51 Populations & Assets
Hazards
Air Quality and
Smoke Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Landslides Severe Weather Wildfire Technology, research, and development Low Low Low Medium Medium - - Low - Commercial and retail centers Medium Medium Medium Low High - - Medium - Outdoor recreation High Medium High Medium Low - Medium Medium Medium Ecosystem and Natural Resources
Riparian - High Medium Medium - - Medium High High
Grasslands - Low Low Low - - Low Low Medium
Brushlands - Medium Medium Low - - Low Low High
Foothill woodlands and forests - Medium Medium Low - - Low Medium High Key Services
Education services Medium Low Medium Medium Medium - Medium Medium - Emergency services Medium - Low Medium High - Medium Medium Low Energy delivery and communication services Low Low High High Low - High High High Government administration & community services Medium - Low High Low - Low Low Low Public transit access High - High High Low - Medium High Medium Solid waste removal Medium - Medium Medium Medium - Medium - Medium Water and wastewater Medium High Medium - - High High - High
1 BestPlaces, n.d. Climate in Cupertino. https://www.bestplaces.net/city/california/cupertino. 2 Cal-Adapt. 2023. Annual Averages. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/annual-averages. 3 United States Census Bureau. 2024. Cupertino city, California. https://data.census.gov/profile/Cupertino_city,_California?g=160XX00US0617610. Accessed January 17, 2024.
4 Cupertino, City of. 2023. 6th Cycle Housing Element 2023-2031: Second Draft. Submitted to HCD on October 16, 2023. https://engagecupertino.org/public-documents. 5 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja (California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission). 2018. Statewide Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013.
6 Cal OES. Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-ofthe-director/operations/planning-preparedness-prevention/california-specialized-traininginstitute/hazardous-materials-program/standardized-emergency-management-system-sems/ 7 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 2023. Storm Events Database. https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/
8 United States Geological Survey (USGS). 2003. Map of Active Fault Traces, Geomorphic Features and Quaternary Surficial Deposits Along The Central Calaveras Fault, Santa Clara County, California.https://earthquake.usgs.gov/cfusion/external_grants/reports/01HQGR0212.pdf. 9 IEM. 2023. Draft Santa Clara County Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Volume 1: Base Plan. 10 U.S. Geological Survey. 2015, March. UCEFR3: A New Earthquake Forecast for California’s Complex Fault System. https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2015/3009/pdf/fs2015-3009.pdf. 11 United States Geological Survey (USGS). M 6.9 - The 1989 Loma Prieta, California Earthquake. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nc216859/impact 12 CAL FIRE. 2025, February 3 (accessed). Historical Fire Perimeters. https://www.fire.ca.gov/what-wedo/fire-resource-assessment-program/fire-perimeters 13 U.S. Department of Transportation. 2023. Incident Statistics. https://portal.phmsa.dot.gov/analytics/saw.dll?Portalpages&PortalPath=%2Fshared%2FPublic%20Webs ite%20Pages%2F_portal%2FHazmat%20Incident%20Report%20Search. 14 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. 2023. EnviroStor Database. https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/map/?myaddress. 15 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. 2023. Air Quality Summary Reports. https://www.baaqmd.gov/about-air-quality/air-quality-measurement/air-quality-summaries. 16 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. April 19, 2017. Final 2017 Clean Air Plan. Appendix C.
Available: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/plans/2017-clean-airplan/attachment-a-proposed-final-cap-vol-1-pdf.pdf?la=en. 17 David Ackerly, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, and Bruce Riordan. University of California, Berkeley. 2018.
San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Reg_Report-SUM-CCCA4-2018- 005_SanFranciscoBayArea_ADA.pdf. 18 Cal-Adapt. 2023. Snowpack. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/snowpack/.
END NOTES
Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 53 19 National Weather Service. N.D. July 12-15, 1995 Deadly Heat Wave. https://www.weather.gov/mkx/1995_heat-wave. 20 Vaidyanathan A, Malilay J, Schramm P, Saha S. Heat-Related Deaths - United States, 2004-2018.
MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020 Jun 19;69(24):729-734. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6924a1. PMID:
32555133; PMCID: PMC7302478.
21 United States Census Bureau. 2023. Cupertino city, California. ACS 5-Year Estimates, Year Structure Built. B25034. https://data.census.gov/table?q=B25034:+Year+Structure+Built&g=160XX00US0617610. 22 Huang, J., H. Akbari, and H. Taha. 1990. The Wind-Shielding and Shading Effects of Trees on Residential Heating and Cooling Requirements. ASHRAE Winter Meeting, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Atlanta, Georgia. 23 Kurn, D., S. Bretz, B. Huang, and H. Akbari. 1994. The Potential for Reducing Urban Air Temperatures and Energy Consumption through Vegetative Cooling. ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Pacific Grove, California. 24 Cal-Adapt. 2024.Extreme Heat Days and Warm Nights. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat. 25 City of Cupertino. 2015. City of Cupertino Housing Element 2015-2023. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/12736/636317559509530000. 26 California Department of Housing and Community Development. 2022. State Income Limits for 2022. https://www.hcd.ca.gov/docs/grants-and-funding/inc2k22.pdf. 27 United States Census Bureau. 2023. Cupertino city, California. https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=1600000US0617610. 28 Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. 2023. “HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2023.” https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines. 29 American Community Survey. 2015. 2015: ACS 5-Year Estimates, Language Spoken at Home by Ability to Speak English for the Population 5 Years and Over, B16001. https://data.census.gov/table?q=Table+B16001&g=160XX00US0617610&tid=ACSDT5Y2015.B16001. 30 Public Health Alliance of Southern California. 2018. Healthy Places Index. https://map.healthyplacesindex.org/
31 Roos, Michelle (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 32 County of Santa Clara. 2022. Santa Clara County: 2022 Homeless Point in Time Count and Survey. https://osh.sccgov.org/sites/g/files/exjcpb671/files/documents/2022%20PIT%20Report%20Santa%20Clar a%20County.pdf. 33 United States Census Bureau. 2023. QuickFacts Cupertino city, California. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/cupertinocitycalifornia/PST045219. 34 Valley Transportation Authority. 2015. Valley Transportation Plan 2040: The Long-Range Transportation Plan for Santa Clara County.
https://www.vta.org/sites/default/files/2022-09/VTP-2040_Final.pdf. 35 City of Cupertino. Bicycle Transportation Plan. 2016. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/3479/636443578340030000. 36 City of Cupertino. 2018. Pedestrian Transportation Plan. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/16864/636650034974470000.