Event Center Officially Opens At Rossmoor

After years of arguing and building, the new event center is finally open in Rossmoor.

A ribbon-cutting was held Friday afternoon for the $11 million facility on Stanley Dollar Drive.

The 20,200-square-foot center can seat up to 400 people for performances and other gatherings. It also has meeting rooms and a full-service kitchen.

More than 100 people attended Friday's ceremony. They heard speakers describe the center as a "first class facility" and a "jewel in the crown."

"The event center will showcase the quality of life you all enjoy here," said Walnut Creek Mayor Kristina Lawson.

Contra Costa Supervisor Candace Anderson praised the facility's beauty and also the combined efforts it took to get it built.

"Buildings like this just don't happen," said Anderson.

The center was approved in March 2012 by a 7-2 vote of the Golden Rain Foundation board of directors.

Supporters said the building was needed so concerts and other activities could be moved from the former Del Valle High School facility to the new center in the middle of Rossmoor.

Opponents called it too large and unnecessary. They staged protests and even voted off several board members who supported it.

The center was partially paid for with money from the $7,000 membership fees Rossmoor residents pay when they move in. The rest of the funds came from bank loans.

More than 9,000 residents live in Rossmoor.

The community had another celebration on Friday evening. A reception was held at the Stanley Dollar Clubhouse to recognize its listing now in the National Register of Historic Places.