
Danville and the surrounding Tri-Valley region are buzzing with community achievements — from major trail improvements to top education honors, local shopping events and leadership changes in homebuilding.
The Town of Danville officially broke ground on the long-awaited extension of the Diablo Road Trail, a project officials say embodies decades of community vision for better connectivity, recreation, and environmental access.

When complete, the 0.9-mile extension will link the existing trail to the Barbara Hale Trail and the new Magee Preserve trail network — creating a continuous pathway for pedestrians and cyclists stretching across eastern Danville.
Mayor Renee Morgan emphasized the long road to this moment, saying:
“Over 36 years ago, we were standing here, envisioning this trail. Over the years, local leaders, residents, and partner organizations have worked together to turn that early idea into today’s reality. This trail represents connection, access, and preservation – values that define the Danville community and our County.”
The first phase includes removal of old fencing and site preparation, with construction continuing into late 2026. Crews will pause between December and March to avoid heavy winter weather and ensure safe progress.
Town staff say the expanded network will reduce bike-vehicle conflicts, encourage outdoor mobility for youth and seniors, and support Danville’s broader sustainability and Smart Growth goals.
In education news, the U.S. Department of Education named Danville’s Los Cerros Middle School a National Blue Ribbon School, one of only 31 recognized in California this year and the first for SRVUSD since 2022.
Principal Andy Briggs praised teachers and students:
“This award represents the hard work, passion, and care that our teachers and students bring to learning each day.”
Briggs added:
“At Los Cerros, we are committed to ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. This recognition is a testament to that shared commitment.”
Superintendent CJ Cammack highlighted the recognition as a point of pride districtwide:
“This recognition is a reflection of the dedication, collaboration, and excellence that define Los Cerros and our entire SRVUSD community.”
School officials say the award reinforces ongoing investments in equity initiatives, academic enrichment, and social-emotional learning that have supported rising student success metrics.
San Ramon residents can kick off the festive season at the San Ramon Community Center on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., where more than 50 local artisans will showcase:
✅ Handmade clothing
✅ Jewelry & accessories
✅ Holiday décor
✅ Ceramics and artisan crafts
Proceeds benefit the San Ramon Senior Center Foundation, supporting programs such as transportation assistance, wellness classes, and social activities for older adults.
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Trumark Homes, headquartered in Danville, has created a brand-new executive leadership role as it aims to scale aggressively across the Western U.S.
Industry veteran Steve Kalmbach steps in as Chief Operating Officer, bringing over 30 years of real estate leadership, most recently with PulteGroup.
Company co-founders Gregg Nelson and Michael Maples said:
“Adding a Chief Operating Officer to our executive team at this moment in time is essential to drive growth and sustain operational excellence across the company. We are thrilled to have someone with Steve’s pedigree and passion to lead operations, and the vital M&A work we are pursuing for the future. We are pleased to welcome him to the team.”
Kalmbach expressed excitement for the opportunity:
“Joining Trumark Companies and working alongside this talented team is a dream opportunity at this stage of my career… I look forward to contributing to Trumark’s continued success and helping to shape its future with the team.”
Trumark leaders say the move positions the company for an active 2026, with an expansion pipeline in both single-family and master-planned development segments.
Residents should set clocks back one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2 as Daylight Saving Time comes to an end. Authorities also encourage using the time change to test smoke alarms and review household emergency kits.
Originally reported by Jeanita Lyman in Danville.