Cupertino Housing Plans Threaten to Displace Families for Student Beds

Cupertino, California – The Foothill-De Anza Community College District’s proposal to convert McClellan Terrace Apartments into 332 affordable student beds may displace 94 families currently residing there.

In response to a growing need for student housing, the district plans to purchase the apartments, highlighting the difficulties students face in finding affordable rent. This move follows the passage of Measure G in 2020, which provided $898 million for facility upgrades and housing solutions.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from community leaders and residents, who argue that alternative solutions should be explored to avoid uprooting families. While De Anza College has ample space, trustees have not fully considered creating housing on campus or repurposing hotels struggling post-pandemic.

Two hotels in Cupertino, the Hilton Garden Inn and Aloft Cupertino, could serve as potential dorms. Advocates believe that converting hotels could resolve both housing shortages and financial struggles faced by these establishments.

Despite being a possible solution, trustees are hesitant, expressing concerns about the absence of kitchen facilities. Critics argue that other institutions, such as San Jose State University, have found success in similar conversions.

As discussions continue, the situation remains tense. Families living in McClellan Terrace now face an uncertain future as the college district weighs its options.

“Trustees see themselves as helping students, but their actions may displace nearly 100 families who might struggle to find new homes,” a local resident stated.