City Council Update
 The City Council held a General Plan Update Study Session on July 21st, which provided valuable feedback on the priorities and values that will help shape the General Plan update. Council identified several themes including safety, adaptability, economic vitality, sustainability, and maintaining an inclusive and welcoming community. A key focus throughout the discussion was the importance of community engagement. For more information on the 2050 General Plan Update and community engagement opportunities, visit the official General Plan Update website.
At the July 21st City Council meeting, the Council adopted a resolution sending a ballot measure to the November 3, 2026 election for the Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative.
Additionally, at the same July 21st City Council meeting, a Certificate of Recognition was presented to the Buena Vista Elementary School Odyssey of the Mind Team to congratulate them on placing 2nd at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals.
The next City Council meeting will be August 18th. You are welcome to attend meetings in person, or watch on Walnut Creek TV, YouTube live, or video on demand through Roku, Amazon Firestick, or Apple TV.
General Plan Update
A General Plan serves as a blueprint for a city's future. State law requires periodic updates, and Walnut Creek is developing General Plan 2050 to guide growth, services, and community priorities through 2050. The City looks forward to engaging the community throughout the process to help shape a safe, inclusive, healthy, and sustainable future.
Over the next two months upcoming community engagement events include:
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Locust Street Festival – Wednesday, Aug. 5, 5:00-8:30 p.m. (downtown Walnut Creek)
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Once Upon a Street – Saturday, Aug.15, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (Broadway Plaza)
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Downtown Farmers Market – Sunday, Sept. 13, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
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Shadelands Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 19, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
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Workshop #1 – Thursday, Sept. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m. (Civic Park Community Center)
 Applications are now open for the Walnut Creek Civic Academy, an opportunity for residents and those who work in Walnut Creek to gain a deeper understanding of how local government serves our community. Through a series of interactive sessions, participants will learn how City services are delivered, meet the people behind the work, and discover ways to become more involved in shaping Walnut Creek's future. Space is limited, and interested participants are encouraged to apply early.
Connect with Community
 August offers several opportunities to get out, meet neighbors, and enjoy community events around Walnut Creek. Stop by National Night Out to connect with Walnut Creek Police and public safety partners, visit the City's booth at the Locust Street Festival to learn more about Walnut Creek 2050 and the General Plan update, and enjoy a family-friendly evening at Movies Under the Stars in Civic Park.
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National Night Out – Tuesday, Aug. 4, 3:00-6:00 p.m., Broadway Plaza
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Locust Street Festival – Wednesday, Aug. 5, 5:00-8:30 p.m., downtown Walnut Creek
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Movies Under the Stars – Friday, Aug. 7, Civic Park (featuring Lilo & Stitch; movie begins just after sundown)
Register for Fall Classes with Arts + Recreation
 Registration for Walnut Creek Arts + Recreation's Fall 2026 classes and school break camps opens on Wednesday, August 5 at 12:00 p.m. noon. Whether you're interested in fitness, arts, technology, golf, dance, or lifelong learning, there's something for every age and interest. Prepare in advance at WalnutCreekCA.gov/register.
 The Lesher Center for the Arts, in partnership with the Diablo Regional Arts Association, has unveiled its 2026/27 Headliners Series featuring acclaimed performers from around the world. The season includes an exciting mix of music, comedy, dance, Broadway, and special events, offering something for audiences of all interests.
All performances are on sale now. Purchase tickets for three or more shows in a single order to receive a 15% discount.
 Construction is underway on pedestrian safety improvements at the Walker Avenue and San Miguel Drive intersection. The project includes wider sidewalks, a raised crosswalk, improved lighting, enhanced pavement markings, and ADA upgrades to create a safer, more accessible crossing for everyone. Temporary sidewalk and lane closures are expected during construction.
 We're thankful to Broadway Plaza for continuing to bring free live music to downtown Walnut Creek through its Summer Concert Series. Be sure to catch the final performances on August 6, 13, and 20, which help bring residents and visitors together while supporting the businesses that contribute to our vibrant downtown. The full schedule is available at WalnutCreekCA.gov/summer-concerts.
Explore Bedford’s annual juried exhibition returns with CALeidoscope: Evolving Reflections of California, a vibrant celebration of our Golden State. On view now through September 13th, you can reserve your Pay What You Can Tickets today.
From the Mexican border to Oregon, California stretches nearly 900 miles along the Pacific Ocean and is home to beaches, farmlands, mountains, deserts, and redwood forests. CALeidoscope honors the breathtaking geography of this great state and reflects its esteemed position as a cultural leader and hotbed for creativity and innovation.
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