A Message from the City Manager | | |
Greetings –
Have you noticed an improvement in the afternoon commute from San Diego to Temecula over the past week? On Monday, April 28, 2025, the City completed construction of the $138.8 million I-15/French Valley Parkway Phase 2 project, and we are pleased to witness its positive impact on traffic flow along one of the busiest corridors in Southern California. This long-awaited project introduced connector and divider lanes (C/D lanes) between Temecula and Murrieta, optimizing traffic flow and enhancing safety on Northbound I-15 by reducing the weaving that previously occurred between the Winchester on-ramp and the I-15/215 junction. This weaving—where vehicles entering I-15N from Winchester Road merged with those traveling on I-15N, which in turn were shifting over to enter 215N—resulted in daily I-15N traffic backups of up to 20 miles or more. As planned, the C/D lanes are notably decreasing travel times during peak afternoon and evening hours for those commuting on I-15N from San Diego County to Southwest Riverside County.
While the City’s overall goal is to continue to cultivate more high-paying jobs locally to alleviate commuting altogether, we also cannot overlook the current economic context of Southern California that critically needs many forms of mobility infrastructure, and the valuable benefits this project is intended to deliver. From an economic perspective, the project will improve freight delivery times from San Diego County, facilitating easier access that saves time and money. From a public safety standpoint, the new connector and divider lanes provide travelers a safer route, while also freeing up Northbound I-15 for emergency responders when needed. Among many other benefits, reduced congestion and idling of vehicles through Temecula Valley should lead to lower emissions and improved air quality. The most heartening outcome of these improvements is that reduced congestion will translate into more quality time for families, for loved ones, or, simply, for oneself. A savings of 15-20 minutes in the evening can equate to approximately 1.5 hours over a five-day workweek, enhancing the overall community well-being for residents in our City and in the region. We plan to analyze the positive impacts of this project with factual data over time, as the benefits cannot be overstated.
Finally, cities typically do not construct interstate freeways. Temecula spearheaded this ambitious $138.8 million project and it has been a significant undertaking strongly supported by every City Council Member along the way, with the current Temecula City Council ensuring construction commenced and crossed the finish line on time and on budget. The City is deeply grateful for the partnerships that made this project possible, especially Caltrans, along with funding support from our State and Federal governments, including the invaluable assistance of our Congressional Representatives, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, as well as our regional partners, the Riverside County Transportation Commission and Western Regional Council of Governments. Importantly, we acknowledge Team Temecula and extend our gratitude to the City’s Public Works Department including both former and current civil engineers who contributed to this milestone. Congratulations to Ron Moreno, Public Works Director and Avlin Odviar, Assistant Public Works Director, for successfully completing this critical mission.
The I-15/French Valley Parkway Phase 2 project stands as a testament to the City of Temecula’s commitment to improving circulation infrastructure. Over my 30+ year career at the City of Temecula, I’m inspired to say, we did it! Thank you all for your patience over the last two years as we built the largest capital infrastructure project in the history of the City of Temecula! And, there is more to come. We are already working on Phase 3, which is a critically needed step toward mirroring this same project on Southbound I-15.
We look forward to further developments that will continue to enhance connectivity and the high quality of life within Temecula Valley for the residents of our beautiful City.
Aaron Adams,
City Manager
PS. Learn more about the I-15/French Valley Parkway Phase 2 project here.
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I-15 Northbound Freeway Overpass Bridge OPEN!
Temecula’s NB I-15 project is finally open!
Who’s ready to take a cruise on the freshly built overpass bridge, widened lanes, and I-15/I-215 connector?
Watch here!
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GRAND OPENING: Santa Gertrudis Creek Trail Phase II Margarita Road Undercrossing
Wednesday, May 14, 2pm
Join us for the grand opening of the Margarita Undercrossing, a new addition to the City's trail system. Bring your bicycle or your walking shoes and be ready to explore the trail extension. We’ll meet at the undercrossing of Margarita Road. Park at WinCo Foods, 40435 Winchester Road.
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Free Public WiFi at the New Pickleball Complex
Ronald Reagan Sports Park
42569 Margarita Road
The City of Temecula is proud to announce free public WiFi at the new pickleball complex. With the installation of a cutting-edge access point and stadium-style antennas, visitors can now enjoy strong, reliable coverage.
To explore and learn more about the City's WiFi, check out the City's GIS maps.
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Temecula 2025 State of the City (SOTC)
Thursday, June 5th, 7-10am
Pechanga Resort Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2025 State of the City Address. Mayor Brenden Kalfus will provide an update on important future goals, exciting developments and innovative plans happening in the City of Temecula. The event includes a buffet breakfast and a Nonprofit Expo where local nonprofit organizations will share information about their resources. We expect this event to sell out with over 1,000 business and community members! For tickets, call 951-676-5090 or visit www.Temecula.org.
Note: Members of the public may attend the community meeting free of charge via livestream at the Temecula Civic Center Conference Center located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, CA, or online at TemeculaCA.gov/TV. It will also be livestreamed on Frontier FiOS Channel 3, Spectrum Channel 3, City of Temecula App, Temecula TV on the Apple TV App, and Temecula TV on Roku.
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Temecula’s BRAND NEW Splash Pad is now open!
Thank you Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Alexander for joining the fun and welcoming the children!
Spring hours of operation are:
📅 Monday - Saturday (Closed Sundays)
🕒 9 AM - 6 PM (Closed from noon – 1 PM daily for maintenance)
📍 30875 Rancho Vista Rd
More info 📲 TemeculaCA.gov/Splash or @TemeculaAquatics
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City of Temecula's Office of Emergency Management Website
Natural disasters and emergencies do not plan ahead, but you can! All of us have a responsibility to be prepared and resilient from the threat of wildfire.
Visit our Office of Emergency Management website for a variety of information to help our community and residents be prepared. Here you'll find information about emergency plans, wildfires, emergency backpack kits, power outages, resources, supplies, volunteer training, volunteer team support, earthquakes, flooding, our temperature relief center, and more.
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Safe Riders School Registration Program
A Preview of what is to come Citywide beginning in the Fall!
The Temecula Valley Unified School District, in partnership with the City of Temecula and Riverside County Sherriff's Office, and nonprofit organizations including Bike Temecula Valley and Caught With Your Helmet On, is introducing a new "Safe Riders" program where students wishing to ride to school are required to complete a mandatory bike/e-bike safety course and receive an official district registration sticker, giving them the green light to park on campus.
The pilot program was launched recently at Vail Ranch Middle School. Watch here. The program is planned to roll out across the rest of TVUSD middle schools and high schools this coming Fall. Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming Districtwide/Citywide launch!
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Rules of the Road for a Motorized Electric Scooter
Motorized eScooters must follow traffic rules like motor vehicles (California Vehicle Code §21221) and a few are listed below:
- Have a valid driver's license or learner's permit. CVC §21235(d)
- Wear a fastened helmet if a minor under 18 years old. CVC §21235(c)
- Travel up to the maximum speed, 15 miles per hour (mph). CVC §22411
- Ride alone. One rider at a time. No passengers allowed. CVC §21235(e)
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Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Proclamation Celebration
Thursday, May 8th, 6pm
City Council Chambers
41000 Main Street
To be presented during the REDI Commission Meeting
Museum Crafts and Biographies
May 2025
Temecula Valley History Museum
28314 Mercedes Street
Visit the Art and Education Room for coloring and activity worksheets related to prominent Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, & Pacific Islanders and their heritage.
Literature Display
May 2025
Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library 30600 Pauba Road
Check out a variety of literature related to Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander heritage.
Performance by Mākaha Sons
Wednesday, May 21st, 7:30pm
Old Town Temecula Theater
42051 Main Street
Tickets: TemeculaTheater.org
The Māhaka Sons return with their award-winning harmonies, heartfelt stories, and timeless Hawaiian songs.
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Jewish American Heritage Month
Proclamation Celebration
Thursday, May 8th, 6pm
City Council Chambers
41000 Main Street
To be presented during the REDI Commission Meeting
Museum Crafts and Biographies
May 2025
Temecula Valley Museum
28314 Mercedes Street
Visit the Art and Education Room for coloring and activity worksheets related to prominent Jewish Americans and their heritage.
Literature Display
May 2025
Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library 30600 Pauba Road
Check out a variety of literature related to Jewish American heritage.
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Temecula Rod Run
It’s that time again! The Temecula Rod Run is rolling into Old Town!
Friday Night Cruise
May 2, 2025, 5pm - 8pm
HAPPENING RIGHT NOW!
Old Town Front Street
Enjoy the classic cars cruising down Front Street (pre-registered cars).
Saturday Show and Shine
May 3, 2025, 9am - 4pm
TOMORROW!
Old Town Temecula
Explore the classic cars up close and personal.
More info TemeculaCA.gov/RodRun
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Temecula CultureFest
Saturday, May 17, 2025
10am - 3pm
Temecula Civic Center (41000 Main Street)
Let’s take a world tour! The City of Temecula will be commemorating World Cultural Awareness Day by celebrating cultures from all over the globe. There will be special performances, and fun activities for the entire family to enjoy. Be sure to check out the vendor area showcasing the best of what each culture has to offer, from food and crafts to education and entertainment.
Learn more: TemeculaCA.gov/CultureFest
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Tribute to Heroes: Memorial Day Concert
Saturday, May 24, 2025
7:30 - 9pm
Old Town Temecula Community Theater (42051 Main Street)
Ticket Price: $5 Regular Admission
The City of Temecula invites the community to experience a night of music at the Tribute to Heroes concert performed by Temecula Valley Symphony in honor of Memorial Day.
Help us celebrate our heroes in a patriotic-themed concert as we honor them for their brave sacrifices.
More info: TemeculaTheater.org
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Sunset Market
Handcrafted Products
2nd & 4th Thursdays
5-9pm
Town Square Park
Old Town Temecula
41000 Main Street
Handcrafted, artisan and vintage vendors, grab a bite to eat or sweet treat from our gourmet food court, and enjoy live, local music on the lawn.
Check it out!
For vendors and a map, visit TemeculaSunsetMarket.com.
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Small Business Workshops at No-Cost and In-Person
Temecula Valley Entrepreneur's Exchange, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula Contact: 951-506-5180 - TemeculaCA.gov/TVE2
Thriving to a Marketplace 4-Part Series (starts WED May 7) – The Inland Empire Women’s Business Center is hosting a 4-week series designed for new and existing entrepreneurs looking to thrive in the marketplace. Key topics will include: Understanding the Farmer's Market/Marketplace, Setting up your booth, Inventory & Supply Chain Management, Stock management, supplier relations, and sourcing, Marketing & Sales Techniques, ect. Attendees who complete the program will get the chance to sign up for the next Marketplace event in Temecula this June. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/42ENYkR
Disc-over Leadership 2 Part Series (starts WED, May 7) – Volker Jaeckel from FocalPoint is hosting a two-part workshop series which will equip you with the tools to master the Platinum Rule and use DISC to lead with confidence and precision. Attendees will learn to identify and adapt to personality styles, master the Platinum Rule for better communication and influence, and increase trust, collaboration, and engagement. Attendees will also learn practical leadership techniques and handle leadership challenges like remote teams and multi-generational workforces. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/3S4NKi4
Sell Your Business with Confidence (WED, May 7) – In partnership with First Choice, we are hosting a workshop designed to guide current and future business owners through the essentials of selling a business — from understanding the process to getting prepared, even if you're years away from making a move. This workshop will go over the steps involved in a successful selling process, what potential buyers look for in a business, common challenges, and more! Learn more and register here: bit.ly/44BHztk
Access to Capital: For All Levels (THURS, May 15) – The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center is hosting a hands-on workshop that takes an in-depth look at business plans and how they play a crucial role in funding success. Attendees will explore different financing options, gain expert insights, and walk away with practical strategies to secure capital. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/444sJLN
Elevate Your Business (starts WED, May 28) – The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center is hosting a four part series designed to equip business owners with the essential skills and knowledge to build a resilient and thriving enterprise and gain practical insights into strategic planning, financial management, and digital marketing. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/42WSRqR
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Temecula Small Business Market
Saturday, June 28, 8am - 12:30pm
Sam Hicks Monument Park, 41970 Moreno Road, Temecula
We are looking for the next wave of entrepreneurs. Could that be you?
Whether you have a great product, a unique food concept, or a service that meets a community need, the Temecula Small Business Market will give you the tools, confidence, and platform to make it happen. By participating, you will gain valuable experience and have the chance to connect directly with your target audience, setting the stage for your business’s future success.
Press Release: From Seed to Marketplace: Temecula Helps Startups Thrive at Local Market Events
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Summer Day Camp Junior Counselor Program for Temecula Residents
June 9 - August 8
Train to be a Junior Counselor! The instructional "course" is designed for teens ages 15-17 and will run from June 9 through August 8, 2025. To register, the class number is 0420.201.
Participants will be trained on day camp operations, camper management, CPR and first aid. Counselors will be involved with camp activities, interact with campers and attend field trips. volunteer hours for high school graduation requirement will also be earned.
Questions? Email DayCamp@TemeculaCA.gov or call 951-694-6410.
Register online at TemeculaCA.gov/Register.
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It's Easy to Contact Temecula Public Works with the City APP
Temecula’s Public Works team remains hard at work keeping our City top-notch!
You can help by reporting issues around town on our website or mobile app such as graffiti, traffic signals, potholes, streets/sidewalks, parks/landscape/irrigation, animal control, homeless concern, trash collection/street sweeping, and more.
More info: TemeculaCA.gov/Contact
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Temecula Critical Home Repair Program
In partnership with Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley, the Temecula Critical Home Repair Program serves qualified low-income homeowners who have a critical need for home repairs focused on health and safety, such as roof repairs/replacement, heating/cooling repairs, exterior accessibility (stairs, ramps, etc.), window repairs/replacement, and more.
For questions, eligibility, and to apply, contact jessica@habitativ.org or 951-296-3362 x209.
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Blood Drive at City Hall
Monthly, Wednesdays, 10am-4pm
City Hall Conference Center,
41000 Main Street
The City of Temecula's partner, the American Red Cross, has NEW improvements for blood donors:
- Offering FREE A1C testing (commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes).
- Eliminating the traditional finger prick to test hemoglobin levels to a ring-shaped sensor that fits onto the finger.
- Using more automated devices to measure temperature, blood pressure and pulse rate.
Donors must make an appointment. Go to TemeculaCA.gov/BloodDrive to schedule your blood donation on any of these 2025 dates: May 14, June 11, July 9, August 6, September 10, October 8, November 5, December 10.
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Gardens in Bloom: Design and Tour Event
Saturday, May 3rd, 8:30am
Rancho California Water District, 42135 Winchester Road
A garden design class by G3 Gardens Group will include developing a palette of climate appropriate plants and applying key design principles. A neighborhood garden trolley tour will give you an opportunity to learn from an expert gardener about plants, design aspects, and irrigation styles. A continental breakfast is included and there will be free gifts for all attendees. Register at Rancho.Water.com/Tour.
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Human Trafficking Forum with Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez
Tuesday, May 6th, 5:30-7pm
Temecula Conference Center, 41000 Main Street
The entire community is invited to this important public safety event. Come hear an update on the current child trafficking situation in Riverside County and learn how to best protect your child from online predators. Register at 949-459-7170 or Assemblymember.Sanchez@Assembly.CA.gov.
Speakers include:
- Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez, District 71
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Sergent J. Hammond, Riverside County Sheriff's Department
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Corina Hernandez, Crisis Response Advocate with Rebirth Homes and the Riverside County Anti-Human Trafficking (RCAHT) Task Force
- Nancy Aguirre, Community Outreach Educator
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Connect with the City APP
Get the City App! Report a code violation, inform non-emergency police of an issue, or request clean-up of a graffiti location - all with a tap on the convenient mobile app! More than just for problem, use the app to learn about news, locate events and stay connected to social media. With the app, search City employment opportunities. You can even uncover a nearby Wi-Fi park, sit under a tree and stream Temecula TV Channel 3.
Connect with your community. City Council Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6pm in the Council Chambers at Temecula City Hall. Meetings are televised simultaneously on Temecula TV Channel 3 on most local networks and are also available for video streaming on the City's website at TemeculaCA.gov/TV.
Discover the many ways to connect with us at TemeculaCA.gov/Social.
| | These e-blasts are provided by the Temecula City Manager’s Department to share current news and information from Temecula City Hall. We encourage you to forward these to your Temecula friends and neighbors. Anyone can sign-up at TemeculaCA.gov/SignUp to receive City e-blasts directly. | | | | |
