CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
County Offices
651 Pine Street
Martinez 925-313-1080
https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
2280 Diamond Boulevard
Concord 925-685-1181
https://www.concordchamber.com/
Services
Perhaps no other county in California can claim Contra Costa’s diversity of economic, geographic and social environments. Rich in waterways like the Carquinez Strait and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the region is home to prime agricultural enterprises around Antioch and Brentwood, as well as, ports at Richmond and along the Delta.
Industries including three major oil refineries combine with elegant shopping districts surrounding Concord and Walnut Creek, while affluent suburbs and handsome office complexes line the San Ramon Valley.
Pittsburg serves as the center of industry and the industrial transportation hub for the county, creating a vital link to regional, national, and even global markets. Claiming the most modern and advanced steel-producing facility in the nation, Pittsburg boasts a port with the capacity to process 1,500,000 tons of steel each year. The Pittsburg Marine Terminal also imports more cement than any other U.S. port. Finally, the Pittsburg Marina ranks among the top 10 in Northern California, shining as the most modern of local marinas.
In addition to premier business centers like Bishop Ranch Business Park in San Ramon with its regional headquarters and 16,500 employees, the county enjoys a strong retail and service sector. The Sunvalley Mall outside of Concord is a magnet for retail revenue, offering shoppers 1,400,000 million square feet of shops, stores, eateries, and restaurants. With the construction of the lovely Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek is firmly established as the East Bay’s shopping mecca. Over 100 stores include Nordstrom and Macy’s, as well as, local favorites like Ghirardelli Chocolate and Franklin Covey.
In many communities, a regional healthcare institution is one of the primary employers. Contra Costa County residents enjoy some of the finest medical facilities available in California, from major medical centers and specialty institutions to private and public support facilities such as emergency clinics, convalescent hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. A strong network of hospitals provide such specializations as regional cancer treatment centers, high-risk natal care, industrial and occupational medicine, diabetes center, cardiac services, renal dialysis, and pain management.
Education is another point of pride for Contra Costa County, where public school districts benefit from innovative teaching techniques and the cooperation of parents, teachers, and the local business community. Private schools are scattered throughout the county–both church-affiliated and independent–to offer families a full range of educational choices.
Educational resources also support the advancement of new technologies, providing the skills and training for emerging industries. An impressive list of four-year and graduate programs are available at colleges and universities throughout the East Bay, although about 34,000 students choose to take advantage of the many programs and convenient campuses in the Contra Community College District.
Among the nearby universities are the University of California-Berkeley and California State University at Hayward, the latter offering a Contra Costa satellite in Concord. Headquartered in Orinda, John F. Kennedy University maintains branches in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, and Oakland.
A number of California-based or national universities also operate extensions within the county: The University of San Francisco and the University of Phoenix in San Ramon, the Golden Gate University located in Walnut Creek, and a satellite of Chapman University in Concord.
Whether your destination is college or an area employment center, transportation efficiencies include a strong network of highways and efficient, well-maintained freeways that link the county’s rolling hills, valleys, cities and residential communities.
Although many residents prefer to drive to work, shopping, school and entertainment, public transportation systems are continually expanding and improving. Commuters bound for San Francisco are discovering that buses and BART light rail are the least expensive, most carefree way to reach their destination. For longer trips, Amtrak passenger rail and Greyhound/Trailways buses combine with international airports in Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose to provide both air and ground options.
Quality of Life
Home to a growing population that is rapidly approaching the million mark, Contra Costa County harmonizes the tranquility of a semi-rural lifestyle with cosmopolitan amenities that rank among the Bay Area’s finest. Little wonder that the county’s blend of suburban flair, wide-open country, and desirable climate is such a magnet for growth in every sector.
Shoppers who appreciate quality and variety, as highly as they value convenience, will soon discover that Contra Costa County provides an abundance of all three. In charming shopping districts, exclusive boutiques that display the latest Paris fashions mix with casual shops.
For a full day of mall shopping, major centers are located in Walnut Creek, Antioch, Richmond, and Concord. Craving strawberries or artichokes? Farmer’s Markets and roadside stands offer seasonal country-fresh fruits and vegetables.
Accommodating a wide variety of lifestyles, living needs, and income levels, the cities and communities of Contra Costa County offer superb housing options. An attractive selection of apartments, condominiums, and townhouses combine with single-family homes in a variety of architectural styles and price ranges.
Uncompromising value and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of many of the area’s foremost builders, who carefully select the finest properties and view lots for development. Elegant Victorians and beautiful, two-story older homes in the heart of town contrast with horse properties and sprawling ranches in the countryside.
In spite of the small-town spirit and warmth that characterizes so many of the Contra Costa communities, cosmopolitan attractions are minutes away. Sports enthusiasts need only travel as far as Oakland, San Francisco, or San Jose to see their favorite professional teams in the fury of league competition.
Those who prefer the adventure of active sports may want to begin with the region’s landmark, Mount Diablo, along with its surrounding 19,000-acre state park. At an elevation of 3,849 feet, the mountain offers a panoramic view of 35 of California’s 58 counties!
Here, you’ll find some of the finest recreational opportunities, including camping, biking, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and picnicking. Nature provides the backdrop for every activity, with wondrous rock formations, brilliant wildflowers, and the muted hues of shrubs and trees.
Eight regional and state parks are located within the county’s borders, complementing community parks, recreation centers, athletic fields, tennis courts, and golf courses.
Nestled in the foothills of Mt. Diablo, the Concord Pavilion stands as one of the area’s greatest architectural and cultural achievements. Designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry to harmonize with its natural surroundings, the pavilion features the most advanced acoustics and sound system available.
Accommodating the largest of touring productions, the venue manages to create an intimate atmosphere for stellar performers and groups like James Taylor, Tina Turner, Aerosmith, and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. At the same time, it serves as a center for major sports events including the USA Olympic boxing and Wrestling Trials.
Contra Costa County boasts an extremely active cultural community, with over 250 organizations dedicated to the advancement of the arts. A variety of groups present a complete spectrum of entertainment, from standup comedy and live music at local night spots to repertory theater at the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. The Center welcomes over 250,000 visitors each year to its 670 performing arts events.
Playhouse West in Walnut Creek is a cozy theater with comedies and dramas, while the Danville area claims a 17-acre estate designated as one of the county’s parks for the performing arts, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site.
Art and nature harmonize at the Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek, internationally recognized as one of the finest private gardens in North America. At the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, naturalists provide care for over 6,000 injured and orphaned animals each year, returning 40 percent to the wild.
For weekend getaways or vacations within easy driving distance, Contra Costa County is the doorway to some of California’s most beloved destinations. The former Olympic ski site of Squaw Valley and many other wonderful alpine resorts are less than three hours drive from home.
The famous Napa wine country is an hour to the north, a mecca of vineyards, wineries, bed-and-breakfasts, and delightful inns. Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay coastal communities are less than two hours to the west. The San Francisco Bay is well known for year-round sailing, while the city itself glistens as one of the world’s most unique metropolitan centers. For those who desire the best of all worlds, few locales in the nation can rival Contra Costa County for natural beauty and sheer livability.
Alamo
County Offices
925-335-1080
https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
925-837-4400
https://danvilleareachamber.com/
Bordering Danville’s northern edge, the quiet enclave of Alamo features custom homes, ranches, and contemporary houses on large, hilly lots. The Round Hill Country Club is an elegant focal point, surrounded by clusters of luxurious homes with lush fairway vistas.
Newcomers will discover an attractive village that combines a quality lifestyle with close proximity to metropolitan amenities. Equestrian and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the abundance of trails close to home. Alamo maintains over 37,000 acres of parklands that include paths for biking, hiking, jogging, and horseback riding. The residents of Alamo are dedicated to maintaining the community’s small-town ambiance and tranquility.
Antioch
Municipal Offices
925-779-7000
https://www.ci.antioch.ca.us
Chamber of Commerce
925-757-1800
https://antiochchamber.com/
Neighboring the communities of Brentwood and Pittsburg, Antioch is transitioning from its traditional industrial base to a service-oriented economy. The Rivertown Renaissance program is renovating and revitalizing the downtown waterfront district, mixing quaint shops and restaurants with handsome office space that offers beautiful Delta vistas. As a result of this infusion of new energy, retail and service activity is quickening. Extensive landscaping and attractive streetscapes that beckon shoppers add fuel to the commercial growth.
In keeping with the sweeping spirit of renewal, the Renaissance Faire formerly based in Novato is now an Antioch annual attraction. Recreational facilities cater to the interests and needs of all ages, from a senior center to the award-winning ‘Splash Camp” recreational programs at WaterPark.
Support and appreciation for the arts is visible in the statues at major intersections, downtown murals, community theater productions, concerts in the parks, and the renovation of the Lynn House Gallery.
Regional recreational opportunities include the California Delta, where the meeting of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers creates miles of sparkling streams and rolling rivers for fishing, hunting, boating, and water sports.
Blackhawk
County Offices
925-335-1080
https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
925-837-4400
https://danvilleareachamber.com/
The unincorporated community of Blackhawk is noted for its magnificent homes and tennis villas, many of which are owned by corporate executives and celebrities that include well-known authors, professional athletes, and media personalities.
Sequestered behind walls that line the rolling hills east of Danville, this planned luxury community mixes local favorites such as The Shops at Blackhawk with regional attractions like the Blackhawk Auto Museum and the UC Berkeley Museum of Art, Science and Culture.
The prestigious gated country club community gracing the slopes of Mt. Diablo blends abundant open space with the lush fairways of two superb golf courses. Blackhawk offers a lovely town center with a multiscreen cinema, restaurants, specialty shops and services.
Blackhawk actually began with a 1917 ranch that provided the land for the first group of homes in the 1980s. The original Blackhawk Ranch was not only home to productive walnut trees but gained a worldwide reputation for purebred Shorthorn cattle and prize Shire horses.
Brentwood
Municipal Offices
925-516-5400
https://www.brentwoodca.gov
Chamber of Commerce
925-634-3344
https://www.brentwoodchamber.com/
Claiming roots that date back to California’s earliest days, Brentwood thrived for decades as an agricultural center. While residences began to replace farmland by the 1980s, agriculture remains as a vital presence in the rapidly expanding community.
Several large East Bay business parks are within an easy commute of Brentwood, including the Sandia and Lawrence Livermore national laboratories and the Port of Stockton transportation hub. Highway 4 passes through Brentwood, BART stations are just minutes from home, and Vasco Road now links the town to the Interstate 580 corridor and the neighboring cities of Livermore, Tracy, Pleasanton, and Dublin.
The proximity to the California Delta provides a vast network of prime waterways for exceptional fishing, boating, and water sports. The Marsh Creek Trail links the community to outstanding regional parks like Black Diamond Mines, Mt. Diablo State Park, Big Break Wetlands Area, and Contra Loma Regional Parks.
Closer to home, city parks offer playgrounds, open green space, picnic areas, and athletic facilities.
Clayton
Municipal Offices
510-673-7300
https://claytonca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
925-685-11811
https://www.concordchamber.com
The quiet town of Clayton is located in a country setting adjacent to Mt. Diablo State Park, making it possible for undeveloped land to preserve the community’s rural flavor over the decades. Although newer construction predominates, the heart of town harbors tranquil neighborhoods of tree-lined streets and well-kept older homes. The Oakhurst Country Club is the focal point for newer construction, including beautiful townhomes and custom homes graced by meticulous landscaping.
Recreational opportunities are abundant and close to home, from the trails and vistas of Mt. Diablo to Black Diamond Regional Park with 3,700 acres of open space that includes trails for hiking, jogging, and horseback-riding.
Concord
Municipal Offices
925-671-2489
https://cityofconcord.org/
Chamber of Commerce
925-685-1181
https://www.concordchamber.com
According to a recent independent study, Concord ranks as one of the best communities in the entire nation for raising children. This harmonious and well-planned community blends quiet neighborhoods with an excellent park, system, convenient shopping centers, a modern highrise business center, expansive preserves of scenic open space, and an exciting downtown business core radiating from the historic Todos Santos Plaza.
Rapidly transforming into one of the Bay Area’s leading commercial/business centers, Concord is home to an impressive list of major employers including Chevron, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Systron Donner, and the Naval Weapons Station Concord.
Interstate and highway routes combine with rapid rail transit for efficient transportation, allowing Concord residents to enjoy a wide selection of scenic attractions throughout Northern California.
Area youth receive a quality education through the Mt. Diablo Unified district, renowned for its special programs and adult education. Concord is also home to the 200-acre Contra Costa Campus of California State University-Hayward and an extension of Chapman University.
Home of the Concord Pavilion, one of the region’s premier entertainment venues, the city offers highly developed recreational facilities including a regional water park, wonderful festivals, swimming pools, golf courses, tennis courts, athletic fields, hiking and equestrian trails, tot lots, picnic areas, and green space.
Danville
Municipal Offices
925-314-3388
https://danville.ca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
925-837-4400
https://danvilleareachamber.com/
Once the entertainment center for surrounding farms and ranches, Danville has managed to preserve its rustic, rural atmosphere. The quaint downtown district features a country motif and century-old buildings, while a majestic 300-year-old oak greets newcomers in the center of Diablo Road. Residential developments have grown rapidly in recent years, combining handsome ranch-style and two-story homes with lovely townhouse complexes.
The charming retail center features boutiques, art galleries, eateries and specialty shops; while the periphery of town houses a library complex and community center. Culturally active, Danville is home to the Danville Fine Arts Gallery, the Ballet and Theatre Arts of Danville, Music in the Park, Role Players Ensemble Theatre, and Village Theatre.
Community facilities include Oak Hill Park with 43 acres of jogging and horse trails, a pond, open areas, and picnic facilities. Nearby, the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness provides 3,780 acres of natural beauty that includes creeks, hiking and horse trails, and nature study opportunities.
El Cerrito
Municipal Offices
510-215-4300
https://www.el-cerrito.org
El Cerrito Chamber of Commerce
510-705-1202
https://www.elcerritochamber.org/
Nestled in the hills north of Albany is the small town of El Cerrito, a compact but pleasing bedroom community that offers a variety of homesites with spectacular Bay views. Although rowdy saloons and dog racing were part of the town’s colorful history in the 1930s, modern El Cerrito is known for its serene atmosphere, natural beauty, attractive housing, and relaxed style of living. Commuters enjoy the convenience of two local BART connections at the Del Norte and Plaza Stations. Newcomers will find great pubic parks, a library, several private schools, farmers markets, a swim and recreation center, golf and country clubs, and community theater. A myriad of urban amenities are available minutes from home in San Pablo to the north or Berkeley to the south via Interstate 80. Berkeley’s University of California campus and unique shopping and cultural districts are readily accessible to El Cerrito residents, although many have chosen to make this community their home based on more affordable real estate options.
El Sobrante
County Offices
925-335-1080
https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
510-234-3512
https://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/4368/El-Sobrante
Offering everything from standard ranch-style home and equestrian properties in its older, unincorporated areas to handsome modern construction in the “Richmond” quadrant, El Sobrante is characterized as a community with a country atmosphere. This panoramic valley community is governed by the City of Richmond or Contra Costa County, depending upon the location of the property and its jurisdiction. More recent developments near Richmond are not only attractive but feature wonderful hillside vistas. El Sobrante enjoys slightly warmer weather than communities closer to the Bay, avoiding the morning and evening fog. Just 14 miles from the Bay Bridge toll plaza, El Sobrante commuters also enjoy a direct highway link to Orinda and the Orinda BART station. Recreational opportunities like fishing and hiking abound in popular regional parks and multi-purpose trails that include Wildcat Canyon, Tilden Park, and San Pablo Reservoir. The close proximity of Richmond adds regional retail shopping and a wonderful marina to a long list of expanded urban amenities.
Kensington
County Offices
925-335-1080
https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/
Police Protection and Community Services District
510-526-4141
https://www.kppcsd.org/
Kensington is an unincorporated area of Contra Costa County that has local jurisdiction over its police department, park services, refuse collection and fire department. These are governed by two elected boards: the five-member Kensington Police Protection and Community Services District Board which oversee the police department, park services and refuse collection and the five-member Kensington Fire District Board which oversee the fire department and emergency medical services. Kensington is home to more than 4,500 residents and is predominantly a residential community of beautiful and unique homes. Kensington offers its residents a small, community feel with strong civic support. Residents take great pride in their community and all that it has to offer, and they are deeply involved in local groups and organizations. Kensington’s location and topography gives it outstanding views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay – just one of the many perks of living in this community. It also provides residents with easy access to one of the area’s best parks, the 2,000 acre Tilden Park with its hiking trails and scenic Lake Anza. Residents and newcomers alike find this community an idyllic spot to call home – located close to everything the Bay Area has to offer, yet quiet and relaxed enough to be its own world away.
Lafayette
Municipal Offices
925-284-1968
https://www.lovelafayette.org
Lafayette Chamber of Commerce
925-284-7404
https://lafayettechamber.org/
One of the prestigious addresses in the East Bay, Lafayette offers highly acclaimed schools, fine restaurants, BART and highway convenience, and some of the area’s most luxurious housing options. While most communities in the county are poised for growth, Lafayette is essentially limited in room for expansion. Very little is expected to change in this community of lovely homes and attractive retail and service establishments that include art galleries, bakeries, nurseries, clothing boutiques and bookstores.
This unique community offers an idyllic environment with its blend of diverse topography, small-town atmosphere, established neighborhoods, and access to recreational amenities. From the charming downtown district to hidden valleys, every neighborhood and housing choice in Lafayette is desirable. Dedicated to preserving the area’s natural beauty, homeowners are meticulous in caring for their properties. An ideal choice for professionals, executives, and families, Lafayette sponsors many activities for children. Equestrian paths and biking/hiking trails dot the area. Nearby Lafayette Reservoir appeals to boaters and anglers, although the trails are filled with joggers on the balmy evenings.
Martinez
Municipal Offices
925-372-3500
https://www.cityofmartinez.org
Martinez Chamber of Commerce
925-228-2345
https://www.martinezchamber.com
Famous for its gently rolling hillsides, verdant open spaces and beautiful parks, Martinez is a rapidly growing community that serves as the county seat. Its status as the oldest community in Contra Costa County is most evident in the historic downtown district, a quaint and friendly center reminiscent of the days when shop owners called customers by name.
Among the major employers in this rapidly growing city are the Contra Costa County government and Contra Costa Regional Medical Center. The population is youthful, comprised primarily of young couples and growing families in single-family homes who enjoy a commute to work of less than 30 minutes. Beautiful older homes, new subdivisions, custom homes, and condominiums provide a wide selection of housing options that vary in style and price.
Among the unique amenities are wonderful museums like the John Muir Home and Shell Museum, an exciting regional waterfront district, and the boating, water sports, and superb fishing opportunities of the California Delta.
Moraga
Municipal Offices
925-888-7050
https://www.moraga.ca.us
Moraga Chamber of Commerce
925-323-6524
https://moragachamber.org/
Just 18 miles from San Francisco is the small town of Moraga, a semi-rural community known for its excellent schools, rolling hills, balmy weather, and serene neighborhoods.
Home of Saint Mary’s College, the town boasts a highly developed cultural community that includes the award-winning Moraga Playhouse. Recreational amenities are highly developed, from the panoramic Moraga Trail that begins in the hills of Lafayette to public golfing, swimming, and tennis at the Moraga Country Club. Housing options range from condominiums and townhouses to a diversity of single-family homes. Exclusive developments like the gated Sanders Ranch offer some of the East Bay’s most luxurious homes.
Orinda
Municipal Offices
510-253-4200
https://www.cityoforinda.org/
Orinda Chamber of Commerce
925-254-3909
https://orindachamber.org/
Considered to be one of Contra Costa County’s most beautiful cities, Orinda is just 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco. This quiet and family-friendly community claims the natural beauty of tree-clad hillsides, excellent schools, a strong cultural community, and lovely neighborhoods. Bruns Memorial Amphitheater is the proud host of the internationally renowned California Shakespeare Festival, while the elegant Art Deco masterpiece of the Historic Orinda Theatre serves as the focal point of Orinda Theatre Square.
Recreational opportunities abound in several parks and regional preserves, including Lafayette Reservoir. Orinda is so advantageously located at the crossroads of many national and regional trail systems, the city was designated as “Trail Town USA” by the American Hiking Association.
Pittsburg
Municipal Offices
925-252-6900
https://www.pittsburgca.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
925-432-7301
https://www.mypittsburgchamber.org
The “steel town” of the West Coast is actually a progressive, friendly, well-planned and extremely attractive community. Celebrated for excellence in economic development and partnership efforts, as well as, business incentives, Pittsburg is creating a renaissance as a bustling industrial and commercial center with a quality marina that ranks among California’s top ten.
Some of the East Bay’s finest real estate values and waterfront properties are located in Pittsburgh, from lovely Victorians and sprawling single-family homes to attractive townhouses with private docks. Strong support for cultural events and the performing arts is evidenced in the Pittsburg Community Theatre, the Small World Park, the Los Medanos Jazz Festival, Winter Arts Festival and the regional delight: the Pittsburg Seafood Festival.
Situated to the east of the lovely Mount Diablo State Recreation area along Highway 4, Pittsburg enjoys a “Growth corridor” location on the East Bay. To the north, the California Delta provides unparalleled opportunities for fishing, boating and water sports.
Pleasant Hill
Municipal Offices
925-671-5270
https://www.pleasanthillca.org/
Chamber of Commerce
925-687-0700
https://www.pleasanthillchamber.com
Characterized as a small, “old-fashioned” community, Pleasant Hill is reminiscent of yesterday’s friendly villages where shop owners recognized their customers and neighbors were quick to offer a greeting. In fact, the caring, intimate atmosphere created by residents who call Pleasant Hill their home is one of the attractions to this well-balanced community.
The local parks and recreation district is one of the finest in the state, operating wonderful parks throughout the community that feature a diversity of amenities that range from play areas and athletic facilities for the young to scenic views for photography buffs. Just 15 miles from town, the highest mountain in the coastal range dominates the skyline. Local recreational facilities combine with acres of open space and meadows, as well as, regional highlights like the 12-mile Contra Costa Canal Trail.
Residents are justly proud of the distinctive, new downtown district that features over 340,000 square feet of retail space in a beautiful main street setting for major retailers, local shops, convenient services, and offices.
Richmond
Municipal Offices
510-620-6513
https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us
Chamber of Commerce
510-234-3512
https://www.rcoc.com
On the northwestern corner of Contra Costa County is Richmond, a city that takes pride in its pro-growth, pro-business attitude. Richmond’s perch on the San Francisco Bay enables it to welcome ocean-going tankers that are delivering crude oil to Chevron Oil refineries, one of the major local employers. Richmond is a major transportation hub in the Bay Area, combining major interstates, cargo rail service, a deepwater shipping port, AC Transit, BART, and Amtrak. Long known for its significant industrial sector, the economy is diversifying with an influx of high technology companies and light industry. At the same time, long established manufacturers like Chevron and Zeneca are upgrading and expanding their Richmond facilities. Housing options vary from neat rows of bungalows to lovely homes with spectacular bay views. Point Richmond, the area’s oldest neighborhood, offers elegant Victorian homes and a charming main street lined with cafes and shops. Richmond offers picturesque marinas, community centers, a senior center, lovely parks, and the regional shipping destination of Hilltop Mall.
San Ramon
Municipal Offices
925-973-2500
https://www.sanramon.ca.gov
Chamber of Commerce
925-242-0600
https://sanramon.org/
Blending identities as a bedroom community and major employment center, San Ramon’s impressive growth over the past decade was the result of a single decision. When developers decided to transform 580 acres of orchards into Bishop Ranch Business Park in the 1980s, the complexion of the community changed.
Today, over 16,500 people are employed at the park, serving as the regional headquarters for giants like Pacific Bell, Chevron, AT&T, ROLM, and IBM. Domestic and international companies agree that San Ramon has the right combination of “room to grow” and an excellent innovative environment. The dizzying pace of prime development has amazed long-time residents who still remember the days of driving to Danville for groceries.
The construction of Interstate 680 further opened the area to waves of new subdivisions and commercial growth. Among its impressive amenities, San Ramon now claims several shopping centers, a hospital, library, community center and senior center, a golf course, country club, swimming pool and numerous parks.
Fortunately, the transition from a residential and agricultural village into a bustling business center has been admirably planned and controlled to maintain a quality image. Parks, fountains, waterfalls, and acres of rolling lawns surround modern office buildings and industrial parks to create a truly beautiful living environment.
East Bay regional recreational amenities are superb, providing thousands of acres of prime wilderness, trails, and nature preserves.
Walnut Creek
Municipal Offices
925-943-5800
https://www.walnut-creek.org
Chamber of Commerce
925-934-2007
https://www.walnut-creek.com
Situated at the foot of towering Mount Diablo is the city that might be considered as the center of sophistication for Contra Costa County. With all the major conveniences and quality attractions of a metropolitan hub, Walnut Creek is a favorite destination for those who want to spend quality time shopping or taking in a show.
Enjoying a rating by the respected San Francisco Chronicle as the East Bay leader for general amenities, Walnut Creek consistently drives trends and fashions for the entire county.
The Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts is a regional draw, featuring three performing art theaters with a total of 1,212 seats, as well as, the Bedford Art Gallery. The Broadway Plaza adds to the legacy of regional supremacy as a premier retail mecca for the East Bay. Within the context of wildlife museums and animal rehabilitation centers, the Lindsay Museum has earned a national reputation for its facilities and programs.
Among the treasures from the past is the Old Borges Ranch/Shell Ridge Open Space, offering a special living history program for students and other groups that provides hands-on ranching experience.
Boutiques, patio cafes, and some of the region’s most respected restaurants line the streets of Locust and Main. Among the major employers are highly visible healthcare systems such as the Kaiser Foundation, John Muir/Mt. Diablo Health Systems, and Permanente Medical Group.
Recreational facilities are equally impressive, from championship golf courses to the 101-acre Heather Farm Parks complex.
