Latest News

Friday, March 27, 2026| What’s Doing in Lafayette?

News From the City Manager’s Corner

This week’s updates from City Manager, Niroop Srivatsa highlight:

• Statement Regarding March 21st Murder Investigation
• City Secures $3.7M State Funding to Construct Portion of Aqueduct Pathway
• New Housing Approved for Downtown
• Burton Valley Firewise
• Garbage and Green Waste “Lid-Flip” Study April 6-7
• City Acquires New Public Art
• City Endorses Lafayette School District Parcel Tax Measure on June Ballot
• Share the Trail - eBike Safety Reminders
• Register Now for Summer Camps and Classes
• Planning Underway for the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival; Vendor Applications Now Open
• Upcoming Plaza Lawn closure for maintenance
• Landscaping Work on Pleasant Hill Road Medians on Tuesday and Wednesday
• Call for Poets
•  Lafayette Police Citizens' Academy Underway

If you have feedback for us about these topics, send an email to lafayettelistens@lovelafayette.org.

Statement Regarding March 21st Murder Investigation

Last weekend, we were shocked and saddened to hear that a Lafayette resident was killed and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victim. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has charged a Butte County man with the murder. This was the city’s first homicide in over 20 years.

As the City Manager, I want to express my deep gratitude to the Lafayette Police Department and to the officers who responded to the homicide and were able to swiftly locate and detain the suspect. I also want to thank all the other law enforcement agencies that came to our assistance on Saturday, especially the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office Investigations and Crime Scene Investigations.

Police Chief Williams said, “I want to reassure the community that there is no threat to the public. We believe this was a targeted act, not a random attack, and the suspect is in custody.” 

The investigation is ongoing. If you have any information about the case, please contact the Investigation Division of the Sheriff’s Office at (925) 313-2600, mail tips@so.cccounty.us or call the anonymous tip line at (866) 846-3592 to leave a voice message.

City Secures $3.7M State Funding to Construct Portion of Aqueduct Pathway

I am thrilled to share that the City has secured $3.7 million in State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funds to construct a key segment of the Aqueduct Pathway, a safe, fully separated route for people walking and biking through downtown Lafayette.

The newly secured funding, combined with other sources, will allow the City to construct the segment of the pathway between Dolores Drive and the Lafayette BART station.

The Aqueduct Pathway is a planned multi-use trail located within the existing East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) corridor that runs parallel to Mt. Diablo Boulevard, BART, and State Route 24. When complete, it will provide a continuous, car-free route connecting neighborhoods, downtown destinations, and regional transit.

The segment from Dolores Drive–to–BART will close a critical gap in Lafayette’s walking and biking network, making it easier and safer for residents to access BART, local businesses, schools, and community amenities without needing to drive. The start of construction of this segment is anticipated in 2029.

A westerly segment of the pathway is already complete (pictured below). The segment between Risa Road and Dolores Drive opened in 2025 and is currently in use. In addition, design work is currently underway for the next phase of the Aqueduct Pathway, easterly to Pleasant Hill Road. The City previously secured $300,000 from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to complete design for this segment, which is approximately 1.9-miles.

The City’s long-term vision is to ultimately extend the pathway east to the existing regional trail network that connects to Walnut Creek, as well as establish connections to the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail.

“The Aqueduct Pathway will provide a safe alternative to busy roads like Mt. Diablo Boulevard and Deer Hill Road,” said Lafayette Transportation Program Manager Patrick Golier. “By creating a fully separated route, the project will make it easier for people to walk and bike to BART, downtown, and other everyday destinations.”

The project also supports planned housing growth in downtown Lafayette by providing safe and convenient first- and last-mile connections to transit. As new housing is developed, the pathway will help reduce reliance on driving, lower transportation costs, and support a more sustainable and connected community. The City is coordinating closely with regional partners, including BART, to ensure seamless connections between the pathway, the BART station, and downtown Lafayette.

Together with the Lafayette BART Town Center and Bike Station project, the Aqueduct Pathway will help create an integrated network of safe and accessible routes linking housing, transit, and downtown destinations. For more information, visit the Aqueduct Pathway Project webpage.

New Housing Approved for Downtown

On Monday night, the Lafayette City Council approved, with conditions, a proposal to build a six-story mixed-use residential development at 3458 Mt. Diablo Blvd. (at Second Street) consisting of 31 residential units (including 3 below-market-rate units and one live-work unit) plus a commercial space on the ground floor. The site currently has a one-story commercial building that will be demolished. Local developer, Nikhil Gera, OUTDO Lafayette LLC, utilized State Density Bonus Law for this project. Watch the City Council Meeting or check back next week on our Major Projects webpage for more about 3458 Mount Diablo Blvd.

Speaking of housing growth, did you know that last year (2025) the City approved 163 housing units? Of those 43 are accessory dwelling units (ADUs), 10 are single family detached homes and 110 units are part of two multifamily projects in proximity to the BART station and downtown:

• Oak Hill Place at Deer Hill: A new medium-density subdivision consisting of 17 single-family homes including one below-market-rate unit, and three attached ADUs at 3600 Deer Hill Road, adjacent to the Lafayette Hillside Memorial (“The Crosses”).

• 1001 Oak Hill: Redevelopment of existing commercial parcels into a 7-story mixed-use building consisting of 90 rental units including 11 below-market-rate units, and 2,000 sq ft ground-floor commercial space. The project includes a commercial first-floor, 6 residential stories, and parking provided on the first and second-floors.

These multi-family projects are also listed on our Major Development Projects webpage. 

Burton Valley is now a Firewise Community

We are delighted to share that Burton Valley is Lafayette's newest, and largest, Firewise community with over 900 homes!  Burton Valley residents are encouraged to save the date to attend their first Firewise community event at 2pm on Saturday, May 16 at the Lafayette Community Center. Learn more about what it means to be part of a Firewise community and how you can get involved. Speakers will include the City’s Emergency Services Coordinator, Andy Comly, among others. Please watch for additional details about the meeting in upcoming Weekly Roundups.  In the meantime, if you would like to sign up for Burton Valley Firewise information, please email burtonvalleyfirewise@gmail.com

Firewise is a nationally recognized program that helps neighbors learn simple, effective ways to reduce wildfire hazards around their homes and properties. By working together, residents can improve safety, increase awareness, and better prepare for wildfire season. See Lafayette’s Firewise webpage to learn more about the City’s Firewise communities.  If you are interested in forming a new Firewise community in Lafayette, please email Emergency Preparedness Commissioner, Stephanie Bontemps, at lepcstephanie@gmail.com for assistance.

Annual Lawncare Scheduled for Lafayette Plaza

Our Public Works crew has placed signs at Lafayette Plaza informing visitors that the lawn area will be closed for annual maintenance beginning early morning on Monday, April 6. The lawn will remain closed for up to 3 weeks to provide the seeds with a chance to germinate. During this time, please avoid walking, riding or playing on the lawn.

Garbage and Green Waste “Lid-Flip” Study April 6-7

RecycleSmart and the City of Lafayette have retained a consultant to conduct visual ‘lid flip’ assessment of residential trash and organics containers to better understand our community’s sorting practices. On April 6 and April 7, you may see an inspector in your neighborhood performing 'lid-flips' and looking into your organics and landfill carts and bins.

RecycleSmart is only looking for proper sorting and may leave outreach on your carts with helpful tips and suggestions. See the list of acceptable organic materials that can be placed in the green cart. 

New Art Pieces Expand City’s Public Art Collection

Lafayette loves art and our local arts community! This week, the City’s public art collection received two new pieces:

Glenn Seaborg Garden Public Art – Masayuki Nagase
On March 23, the City Council approved a public art proposal by internationally-recognized sculptor Masayuki Nagase for the Glenn Seaborg Garden at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. As part of a garden floor replacement project, the site-specific design is inspired by Kyoto Zen garden traditions and serves as an homage to Dr. Glenn Seaborg, referencing both the physical universe and the inner landscape of human thought.

Binh Danh Donation – “In Memory of Our Troops, 6475”
Also on March 23, the City Council accepted the donation of a daguerreotype by nationally recognized photographer Binh Danh. The work, In Memory of Our Troops, 6475, depicts the Lafayette Hillside Memorial and will be installed at the library. The donation was generously facilitated by former Public Art Committee member Carol Reif.

Although Lafayette features a variety of artwork in public spaces, the City’s collection includes only those works located at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, as well as pieces that have been gifted to the City or installed on city-owned property.

To keep up with art-related news and happenings, follow our @LoveLafayetteArtists account on Instagram.

City Endorses Lafayette School Parcel Tax Measure on June Ballot

Recognizing the importance of strong schools to the vitality of the Lafayette community, the City Council has endorsed the passage of Lafayette School District’s Measure H, which will be on the June 2, 2026 ballot. The endorsement was made at the March 23 City Council meeting.

If approved by voters, the measure would replace the District’s expiring Measure L parcel tax with a new parcel tax of $585 per parcel for nine years, generating approximately $5.1 million annually to maintain core academic programs, attract and retain highly qualified teachers, and maintain manageable class sizes.

• Read more about the Parcel Tax Measure on the District’s website.
• For voting resources, visit the County Elections website.

Wait! Didn’t voters already pass Measure H? Yes and No - This is a different measure.

In November 2024, voters approved Measure H, a City sales tax of 1/2₵ for a period of 7 years to provide funding to maintain the current level of City services. It is unrelated to this 2026 Measure H for a Lafayette School District parcel tax. The County Elections Office follows a pre-set protocol to designate measure letters, and it is reset every two years, hence different ballot measures with the same letter.

Share the Trail - eBike Safety Reminders For Riders of All Ages

Enjoying your e-Bike? Great, just go easy on that throttle and help keep our roads and trails safe for everyone. East Bay Regional Park District allows Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail and only the paved sections of the Briones to Las Trampas Regional Trail.

For more information, visit East Bay Regional Park District's Ebikes webpage.

Remember to:

• Slow down on Park Trails
• Max speed is 15 mph. Slow to 5 mph when passing others.
• Helmet On (Required for riders under 18 years - smart for all.)
• Stay on designated trails and in bike lanes
• Help protect wildlife, natural spaces, and pedestrians

Know where e-bikes are allowed:

• Class 1: Allowed on EB Park Trails where regular bikes are permitted
• Class 2: Limited to paved EB Park Trails
• Class 3 & e-scooters: Not permitted on any trails

Register for Summer Camps and Classes

The Summer Recreation Guide is full of exciting activities for everyone – from tots, to teens to seniors, and you can register now! Click on image to read the Summer Rec Guide online.

Planning Underway for the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival; Vendor Applications Now Open

It wouldn’t be summer in Lafayette without our largest annual event, the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival! This year’s festival will be held September 19 & 20 in Downtown Lafayette and you can apply now to become a vendor or sponsor. Visit www.lafayettefestival.com/apply or contact the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce to learn more about the sponsor/vendor application process.

Meetings & Events 

Spring Art Exhibitions: A Celebration of Artistic Exploration

The Public Art Committee is pleased to present its spring exhibitions, now on view at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center and the Town Hall Theatre. These thoughtfully curated exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to engage with diverse artistic voices.

• Hearing Shapes, Seeing Sounds – John Poole Library Lobby Alcove Display Case through May 31: Poole’s sculptures (pictured below) explore sound, form, and storytelling. Drawing from his experience as a musician and maker, he transforms materials into objects that suggest rhythm, memory, and narrative, inviting viewers to experience shapes as if they carry sound—and sounds as if they have form.

• Surface – Mary Stets Chabolla Library Community Hall Gallery & Homework Center through May 31:Chabolla’s abstract oil and cold wax paintings explore layering, texture, and the balance between control and spontaneity, evoking memory and movement in a cohesive, reflective exhibition.

• Adoration – Angelina Triana Town Hall Theatre through May 31: Triana’s ethereal oil paintings explore the depth of human love, conveying both serenity and vibrancy through fantastical, nature-inspired settings.

Call for Poets

Local poets are invited to share their voices at the next Poetry for the Ages, a welcoming mid-day poetry salon celebrating National Poetry Month that is a unique opportunity for poets to connect across generations and share their work in a supportive, salon-style setting. Sign up to read at the April 21 Poetry for the Ages event.

City-led Capital Improvement Projects

Roadwork on Pleasant Hill Road on Tuesday and Wednesday

Taking advantage of the school break, our Public Works will finish weeding the medians on Pleasant Hill Road between Springhill to just past Rancho View. For the crew’s safety, this work requires one lane to be closed. The crew will likely be starting on the northbound side and then switch to the southbound side each afternoon, with a plan to wrap-up around 3pm.

BART Bike Station/Pathway Project

Our contractor has started installing construction fencing around the project as well as information signs that will show users of the BART Station how to access the station while our project is under construction.  The bike lockers that have been relocated to the parking lot are available for use.  Other bike racks can be found inside the BART Station as well as on the North side of the station. More information about the BART Bike Station/Pathway Project is available on the project webpage.

Road Repaving Project Information Available

This summer’s road paving project is anticipated to start in June. Watch a recording of the community meeting to learn more.

Other Community News & Events

Upcoming Composting Workshops

The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development invite you to join their free virtual composting workshops to learn how to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost at home. You are welcome to join any or all of the virtual workshops:

• March 28 - Home Composting
• May 2 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
• October 24 - Home Composting
• December 5 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)

Register by clicking on the date above.

Last Call! Cast Your Ballots by March 31 for the Best of the East Bay

Voting is open for Diablo Magazine’s 2026 Best of the East Bay with more than 180 categories celebrating the people, places, and businesses that make our community special. Show your support for the local businesses, programs, places and events that you love! Cast your ballot for your favorite businesses by March 31.

Lafayette Chamber Board Installation Webinar

On Tuesday, March 31 at 9am, Chamber members and the community are invited to the online ceremony to formally install the Lafayette Chamber’s 2026 Board of Directors and hear the Chamber’s Q1 update. Register to attend.

Lafayette Rotary Club’s Annual Candy Scramble on Saturday April 4

This event is open to all children ages 2 through 2^nd grade. The event takes place at Lafayette Plaza (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Road) at 10am on Saturday April 4.

The park lawn will be covered with candy for the kids to put in their baskets. The youngest are always given extra time to get their share! Event starts promptly at 10:00am. Join in for family fun, and don’t miss the “Johnny’s Donut Dive” (for adults only). Details at rotarylafayette.org.

Story Games at Town Hall Theatre on April 6: Step into a world where everyone helps create the story!

Story Games blend improv theatre, imagination, and tabletop play—no scripts, no game master, just shared creativity. Together you’ll dream up new worlds, surprising twists, and unforgettable characters—all in one evening. Perfect for writers, performers, gamers, and anyone who loves stories. No experience needed—just bring curiosity!

Typically held on the 2^nd Monday of each month, however due to a scheduling conflict the April meeting will be on Monday, April 6.  Free, with a suggested donation to Town Hall Theatre.

Congressional High School Art Competition Deadline is April 9

Each year, Congressman DeSaulnier hosts the 10th Congressional District High School Art Competition and Exhibition. The exhibition is a judged art show, open to high school students in the Tenth Congressional District of California. Submissions will be accepted until April 9 at 5pm.

The exhibition will be displayed publicly and will culminate in a closing awards event. The winning artwork of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will include the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. Additionally, the winner will receive two round-trip airline tickets to join the exhibition in Washington, D.C. The winning artwork will also be featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page. For more information and the rules, visit Congressman DeSaulnier's webpage.

Youth Empowerment Benefit Concert on Thursday, April 9 Benefitting OTTP-NorCal

OTTP-NorCal will host its Youth Empowerment Benefit Concert on Thursday, April 9 at 6:30pm at The Fourth Bore Taproom & Grill in Orinda. The event will feature the cover band Brothers Coane, in their 2-man show, “Decades of Hits, Endless Good Vibes!” Sing along to the songs you love, jam to the classics, and dance the night away! Tickets and additional information are available at: www.event.gives/yef26. Each ticket includes drinks & appetizers, access to our live auction, and, most importantly, supports underserved Bay Area youth.

Questions may be directed to development@ottp-sf.org. Occupational Therapy Training Program (OTTP-NorCal) is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health services to youth ages 2 to 24 throughout Northern California. Learn more at ottp-sf.org.

Lafayette Friends Corner Book Shop Sale

The Lafayette Friends Corner Book Shop is having a half-price sale! On Saturday April 11, every book in the shop will be 50% off.

Moraga Rotary Club April Events

For more details, contact the Moraga Rotary Club:

• eWaste and Shredding Event on Saturday April 11, 10am to 3:30pm at the Moraga Shopping Center (McCaulou’s Parking Lot)
• Magic Show and Play Time on Saturday April 18 at 1pm at the Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church

County’s 32nd Annual Celebration of Farmworkers' Rights Movement &

2026 Youth Hall of Fame Awards

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors will host the 32nd Annual Celebration of Farmworkers’ Rights Movement at 11am on Tuesday, April 14 in the Board Chambers at 1025 Escobar Street in Martinez. The event will be broadcast live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County's website. This year, the event name focuses on the broader Farmworkers’ Rights Movement, reflecting a more inclusive recognition of the diverse communities and histories that have shaped and continue to drive this work.

Acalanes High School Musical: Chicago

Come enjoy some Razzle Dazzle and All That Jazz!  Tickets on sale now for the musical "Chicago" in the Acalanes Performing Arts Center April 15 through 18 at 7 pm, April 18 and 19 at 2 pm. Purchase tickets at http://tickets.ahsparts.org

BayREN Efficiency and Sustainable Energy Home Program

Insulating your attic and walls, repairing ducts, and sealing air leaks are some of the most effective ways to lower energy bills and stay comfortable in your home year-round. BayREN's Efficiency and Sustainable Energy (EASE) Home Program is designed to help income-qualified Bay Area homeowners and renters make their homes healthier, more comfortable, and energy efficient. With a customer co-pay capped at $1,000, EASE Home makes essential improvements, like insulation and duct-sealing, more accessible for moderate-income households. Check if you pre-qualify at  SaveWithEase.com. Questions? Email BayREN at info@savewithease.com or call (925) 232-1179.

Contra Costa Library Local History Connection

Contra Costa Library is proud to now feature historical materials related to Contra Costa County, curated by the Library in partnership with local historical societies, museums, and community organizations. The collection includes photographs, artwork and artifacts, newspapers and clippings, documents, maps, and personal papers that help tell the story of our county’s past.

To explore these materials, visit the Digital Resources page at ccclib.org and access the collection online.

Contra Costa County Animal Services Department is Looking for Volunteers

Volunteers support and supplement the shelter programs and are an integral part of the team at Contra Costa Animal Services. Volunteer positions are available for adults aged 18 years and older. A minimum commitment of eight (8) hours per month for six (6) months is preferred. Volunteers must be able to follow directions and communicate with staff, volunteers, and the public with a positive attitude to support an inclusive environment in which everyone feels respected and valued. Please visit Animal Services FAQ for more information.

Looking for more upcoming happenings around town?

Visit the Chamber’s Community Events Calendar online.

Miscellaneous

Spring Into the Outdoors with these Sustainability Tips

With spring in full swing and gas prices running high, it is a great time to rethink some of our everyday routines. Here are tips from Lafayette’s Environmental Task Force: Sunny mornings and longer afternoons make it easier and more enjoyable to be outside. For families, that might mean walking or biking to school and heading to nearby parks on foot. Before grabbing those car keys, consider swapping short car trips for a quick stroll. These small shifts can add up, saving money, reducing emissions, and helping everyone feel a little more energized. Try it just one day this week. Skip the car for a short trip and see how it feels. You might be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite part of your routine.

Know Your Rights Regarding ICE: Access resources compiled by the County’s Employment & Human Services Department and Stand Together Contra Costa. Stand Together Contra Costa’s Rapid Response hotline is 925-900-5151.

Reduced ADU Development Impact Fees: The City has temporarily reduced the development impact fees charged for new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by 50% through 2026. And, if you finish construction by September 30, 2026, you may be eligible for a rebate through the ADU Accelerator Program. Learn more about all the current incentives.

Spring is the Time for Yellowjacket Prevention: Vector control experts recommend placing yellowjacket traps with attractant bait now to help reduce the number of yellowjackets we experience during the summer.

Curious about Development Around Town? Information on major planning projects can be found on the Major Development Projects webpage.  You can navigate the map or scroll through the list of projects in the sidebar. Projects are only listed here after submission of a complete application and the project is heading into the review process. If you are interested in large and small project applications submitted to the Planning Department, visit the Planning Applications Received webpage, which is updated monthly.

Sign up to receive City notifications: Sign up for meeting agendas and Lafayette’s publications at bit.ly/LafayetteNotifications. Also, find out how to follow us on social media at https://www.lovelafayette.org/connect

Contact Us: To contact a City Department or Staff member, refer to our online Staff Directory. For information on contacting an individual City Council member, see the City Council webpage. You may also email the entire City Council at cityhall@lovelafayette.org. Comments regarding a City Council agenda item should be sent to cityhall@lovelafayette.org  by noon on the day of the public meeting.  Comments received by noon on the day of the meeting will be included as part of the agenda packet, while those received after the deadline will be distributed to the Council on the following business day.

Cultural Observations and Celebrations

Celebrate our diversity by learning more about these cultural observations and celebrations! The City Council has proclaimed March as Women’s History Month, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and Red Cross Month. March is also Irish American Heritage Month.

Mar. 31                       International Transgender Day of Visibility

April 1 to 9                  Passover/Pesach (Jewish)

April 3                         Good Friday (Christian)

April 5                         Easter (Christian)

Photo for the Week

The Lafayette Police Citizens' Academy kicked off Tuesday night with over a dozen residents participating. Attendees got an inside look into what police really do (hint: it is not like the movies) and the wide variety of situations officers' encounter. The evening included a police department tour, a detailed walkthrough of a traffic stop, and how drones are used to find missing individuals and wanted suspects.

The highly regarded Citizens' Academy is a series of six classes providing in-depth views of policing, investigations, use-of-force, the shooting range, and the jails. We offer the Academy twice per year, so if you are interested in attending a future academy, visit our Police Department’s webpage.

Quote for the Week

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

 - Maya Angelou

__________________

The Weekly Roundup is prepared for the Lafayette Community, City Council and Staff. If you have thoughts about this week’s Roundup, a contribution for a future edition or a photo to be considered for the “Photo of the Week”, please email the City of Lafayette's Communications Analyst/Public Information Officer, Suzanne Iarla.

 Learn more about Lafayette’s other digital publications and social media sites here.