Big brands are betting on Walnut Creek’s fixation with health. Known for its affordable prices and universal access, the Planning Commission approved Planet Fitness’ plans to open a 24-hour gym in the former Cost Plus World Market space at 1697 Mt. Diablo Boulevard. 

Broadway Plaza is adding wellness to its retail mix. After a year-long delay, construction is again underway on Lifetime Fitness at 1315 Broadway Plaza Street. Opening in 2023, the luxe “athletic resort” will feature a rooftop pool, spa, and expansive fitness center. 

The booming fitness industry is great news for apparel retailers. As sales continue to surge, Lululemon plans to triple its footprint at Broadway Plaza, expanding into the adjacent Nespresso and Madewell spaces. Both retailers are relocating within the shopping center. 

Almost five years after Align Residential announced plans to build a downtown apartment/hotel, 1380 N. California Boulevard is finally taking shape. When complete, the six-story mixed use building will include 70 apartment units, 20 hotel rooms, 16,000-square-feet of ground floor retail, and three levels of underground parking.

If you haven’t commuted to San Francisco from the Walnut Creek BART station lately, you’re in for a surprise. Phase Two of the long-heralded Transit Village is humming along. The three-building mixed use project, oriented toward Pringle Avenue, includes 358 apartments, a pool and fitness center, plus underground parking. 

On the former Fuddrucker’s site, the seven-story, 135-unit mixed-use 1910 Noma building is also moving along. Stay tuned for updates on tenants opening on the ground floor.

In other news, Bollinger Nails moved its Mt. Diablo salon to Locust Street and expects to open soon in the former Thirteen location next to Mr. Lucky’s. Zebra is expanding its tattoo piercing parlor into the former Mystic Dreams on Broadway. If music is your passion, stop by School of Rock on September 18 for their grand opening celebration at 1345 Newell Avenue. But if virtual reality is your thing, book an orbit around the earth or under the sea at Walnut Creek's new entertainment destination Diablo Escapes. Speaking of good times, with proof of vaccination, audiences can enjoy the return of live performances at Lesher Center for the Arts this fall. 

Effective September 22, Contra Costa County will join San Francisco, Berkeley and other communities across California with a new countywide health order requiring patrons of indoor restaurants, gyms, and other businesses to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result from the past three days for entry.