Projects

Historic Old Town Temecula, California
Old Town Temecula as it is known today began in the 1880’s. The introduction of a stage coach stop and post office during this time allowed Temecula to experience its first development boom. Over the years, Temecula has developed a rich history. In 1979 the Riverside Board of Supervisors recognized the historical significance of Old Town and granted the approval of the Old Town Temecula Historic Preservation Society.  Because of this initial step, measures began to be put in place to preserve the historical character of the district. 

When Temecula became a city in 1989, the Council determined that increased preservation of the Old Town area needed to be a priority.  In 1992 and 1993 the City of Temecula prepared the Old Town Specific Plan. The major goal of the plan was to, “Create a high quality and distinct western image and a functional, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing Old Town for Temecula”. The plan was approved by the City Council on February 8, 1994. The Temecula Redevelopment Agency (RDA) was founded soon after in 1995 and the Historic Old Town District was placed within the boundary of the new Agency. 

The RDA wanted to begin taking an active role in the revitalization of the Old Town district as soon as possible.  However, before this could begin, it was important to gain an understanding of the economic make-up of the district.  The RDA hired an independent third party to perform a market analysis.  The analysis was able to determine not only what Old Town could become, but also served as a blue print for how to get it there.

The market analysis pointed out that the Old Town district did an excellent job of attracting tourists during the weekend. Unfortunately, the area was unable to attract an adequate amount of local residents Monday through Friday. These local citizens were needed so a healthy economic district could thrive during the weekdays.

The RDA initiated a $5.2 million Streetscape project in July 1998 to remedy the problem.  The project involved a major facelift of Old Town’s entire business district, combining historical buildings with new improvements. The area renovated extends along Front Street from First Street to Moreno and Main Street from Murrieta Creek to Mercedes. Blending compatibility into an established historical area is always a challenge when introducing new improvements. As improvements were planned and materials were selected, consideration was given to historical buildings to ensure they maintained their character so the historical charm of the area would not be lost.The addition of curbs, wood boardwalks, new street lights, signs, and furniture including benches, oak trash barrels, and assorted crates and barrels complement the overall informal western design theme highlighting Old Town as it was originally developed at the turn of the century. Interesting features of the Project are the Gateway arches located at the north and south entrances. Local artist Bob Morris designed the arches utilizing intricate inlayed steel and stone cutouts depicting Temecula’s history.

Redevelopment has proven to be a viable financial tool for Temecula. It has improved the quality of life in neighborhoods as well as stimulating growth in business districts through projects, programs, and improvements. The Old Town Streetscape Improvement Project has been Temecula’s most significant redevelopment project. A beautiful downtown area has been created where families can gather to enjoy great shopping, dining, and participate in real "hometown celebrations". The renovation also greatly impacts Temecula’s exceptional tourism climate by attracting new businesses and customers to the area. This will allow the Historic Old Town district to continue its appeal as one of Southern California’s most popular tourist destinations.

Old Town Streetscape Improvements Included:
  • $5.2 million dollar Redevelopment Agency investment
  • Located along Front Street (from First Street to Moreno) and Main Street (from Murrieta Creek to Mercedes)
  • New curb, gutter, boardwalk, and sidewalks
  • New street lights and street signs
  • New street furniture including benches, oak trash barrels, and assorted crates and barrels
  • Landscaping, including a gateway paseo along Murrieta Creek, south of Rancho California Road
  • Gateway arches at the north and south entrance to Old Town
  • Enhanced intersection improvements
  • Sound system along Front Street for background music and special events
  • Storm drainage improvements
Current and Future Projects
    Current Projects:
    • Dalton II 
    • Dalton III
  • Future Projects:
    • Civic Center Phase I
      • Town Square Marketplace
      • Civic Plaza
      • Parking Structure
      • Mercedes Street Improvements
      • Under-grounding of overhead utilities
    • Habitat II
Completed Projects 
  • Affordable Housing:
    • Cottages of Old Town 
    • Habitat For Humanity
    • Riverbank Senior Housing
    • Mission Village 
    • Rancho West
    • Rancho Creek 
    • Dalton II
    • Dalton III
  • Development Activity:
    • Baily’s Restaurant
    • Burke
    • Penny Dome
    • Dalton I 
    • Dalton II 
    • Penfold I 
    • Penfold II
    • Chaparral Building (North Expansion)
  • Public Facilities:
    • Temecula Community Center
    • Rotary Park
    • Mary Philips Senior Center
    • Sam Hicks Memorial Park
    • Old Town Chapel
    • Temecula Valley Museum
    • Children’s Museum
    • Mercantile
    • Old Town Temecula Community Theater
  • Infrastructure:
    • Civic Center Phase I
      • Civic Plaza
      • Parking Structure
      • Mercedes Street Improvements
      • Under-grounding of overhead utilities
    • Streetscape Project
    • Southside Parking Lot
    • Sixth Street Parking Lot
    • Old Town South Entrance Parking Lot
    • Main Street Parking Lot