Dear City of Gilroy Community,
The tragic loss of two parents, members of our community, has deeply impacted our community and our leaders. Over the last week, we have heard from many of you through emails, phone calls, social media, and online petitions. Thank you for sharing your heartfelt concerns and ideas for improvements with us.
Like you, we are devastated by this loss and remain committed to supporting our community in every way we can, including seeking solutions to enhance safety. We understand the community’s concerns about traffic safety around schools and are actively investigating the incident and the conditions that led to such a tragedy. Additionally, we have initiated an independent evaluation of the intersection of Charles Lux Drive and Lopez Way, as well as the other intersections adjacent to Las Animas School, to identify opportunities to enhance the safety of these areas.
As we work through this process, we greatly value our partnership with the Gilroy Unified School District (GUSD) and their commitment to the students and families in our community. Together, we are committed to seeking solutions that promote school safety across our community and implementing recommendations from the independent assessment.
On February 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the Gilroy City Council and the Gilroy Unified School District Board will hold their annual Joint Meeting at the GUSD District Office. Among the topics to be discussed is the current state of school traffic safety and ideas for improvement. We encourage the community to attend this meeting and share additional thoughts or ideas that may not have been shared through other means.
Thank you for your patience and partnership as we work through this difficult time together. Please drive safely. Leave a few minutes early, drive with care and caution in all school zones and near all crosswalks. The safety and well-being of our community are a priority and a collective responsibility. Please look out for one another.
Sincerely,
Harjot Sangha
Interim City Administrator
City of Gilroy