There’s a big trend in the Bay Area towards building housing and shopping around BART stations. And with BART ridership coming back, that trend will almost certainly continue.
Contra Costa Transit Village is one of the places that started that trend. It’s a shopping and dining destination around the Pleasant Hill BART station that also has (pricey) housing and the local headquarters of some big companies.
I took a walk around the Transit Village to show you what it’s like.
The Concept: Live, Work, and Commute
Originally designed as a hub where one could live, work, and commute into the city effortlessly, the Transit Village has experienced a slight shift in dynamics due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While some businesses have faced turnover challenges, the area remains home to some exceptional facilities, like the upscale Avalon residences, world-class Peruvian restaurant Parada, and a popular Starbucks Coffee on Treat Boulevard.
Despite the recent changes, the Transit Village continues to serve as an excellent spot for transit into San Francisco, with a roughly 35-minute BART ride into the city. This convenient commute has made the area particularly attractive for business travelers who prefer staying just outside of the city while having easy access to necessary amenities. The Renaissance Hotel and Embassy Suites are two of Walnut Creek’s best hotels.
Treat Towers: Class A Office Space
Adjacent to the Pleasant Hill BART station is the Treat Towers, a Class A office area housing several large companies, such as MassMutual and AAA. The proximity to the station ensures quick and easy transit for employees commuting from San Francisco.
I used to have an office there. It’s a great place to work!
A Great Place to Call Home
Beyond its appeal to business travelers and office workers, the Transit Village also makes for a fantastic living destination. Residences like Avalon provide an excellent standard of living, while the proximity to the Iron Horse Trail allows for a leisurely 2.5-mile walk to downtown Walnut Creek.
Avalon is pricey but a very nice apartment complex for people who want to commute into the city.
In summary, the Contra Costa Transit Village is a superb location for those looking to balance the perks of city life with the tranquility of a suburban setting. With its ideal placement near the Pleasant Hill BART station, its Class A office spaces, and its accommodations for business travelers, this thriving community is truly a prime spot to live, work, and commute near San Francisco.
