> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.raincrossgazette.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # 🗞️ Riverside News- August 14, 2026 - URL: https://www.raincrossgazette.com/riverside-news-july-31-2026-2/ - Published: 2026-08-14T12:00:53.000Z - Updated: 2026-08-14T18:57:05.000Z - Description: Council OKs Armory brewery deal, affordable home project approved, traffic boxes get artsy makeover... - Author: Gazette Staff - Tags: Newsletter ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0775.jpeg) Kaylan Cummins puts her work-developed "Adventurer's Matrix" — a way to get to know a city better — to the test in Tokyo, Japan. ***Traveling somewhere memorable this season?** [Send us your vacation photos and what you got up to](http://raincrossgazette.com/submitphoto?ref=raincrossgazette.com). **Friday Gazette: August 14, 2026** **Hello Riverside, and Happy Friday!** Welcome to the weekend. We hope it's one full of laughter, rest, and anything else that fills you up. Here's what else is happening around town! --- Advertisement ([Become an advertiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/advertise/)) [![Advertisement](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone_static/169513/image/0?seed=20260814)](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone%5Fstatic/169513/click/0?seed=20260814&ref=raincrossgazette.com) --- #### [CITY HALL](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/city-hall/) ## City Council Greenlights Construction Contract for Fairmount Park Armory Brewery Conversion The $2.73 million contract with Cal-City Construction moves the historic building toward its new life as a family gathering space and beer garden. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2026/08/RG-Feat-Image-Template-3-2.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/city-council-greenlights-construction-contract-for-fairmount-park-armory-brewery-conversion/) The Armory at Fairmount Park, 2501 Fairmount Blvd. (Justin Pardee/Raincross Gazette) Fairmount Park's historic Armory building is one step closer to becoming a brewery and beer garden. **Why it matters:** If you've missed events at the shuttered Armory, expect a family-friendly beer garden with live music, art events and cornhole once construction wraps in about 15 months. **Driving the news:** Council approved a **$2.73 million** construction contract with Cal-City Construction Inc. of Cerritos Tuesday to renovate the 12,000-square-foot building. - Thompson Brewing Co. LLC, which also runs its flagship on Indiana Avenue in Ward 5, holds the lease and plans event spaces, a kitchen-served beer garden and recreational activities. **By the numbers:** - **$3.28 million** total project cost, including a contingency reserve and permitting funds - **450 days** construction window once the city issues notice to proceed - **4.67 acres** — the Armory's footprint, built in 1959 as a military maintenance facility **The backstory:** The renovation is one piece of a broader Fairmount Park master plan that also calls for rebuilding the bandshell, reconfiguring the golf course and closing two streets to cut through-traffic. **Between the lines:** Cal-City's original $3.99 million bid was negotiated down after the city removed planned pickleball courts from the project scope. **What's next:** Construction begins once the city issues a notice to proceed; no start date has been announced. [Read and share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/city-council-greenlights-construction-contract-for-fairmount-park-armory-brewery-conversion/) --- Advertisement ([Become an advertiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/advertise/)) [![Advertisement](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone_static/169515/image/0?seed=20260814)](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone%5Fstatic/169515/click/0?seed=20260814&ref=raincrossgazette.com) --- #### [CITY HALL](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/city-hall/) ## Riverside Approves Casa Blanca Land Sale for Storage, Affordable Homes Project The deal replaces an earlier, larger residential proposal with four affordable homes and a self-storage complex along Railroad Avenue. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2026/08/1-_DSC4113-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/riverside-approves-casa-blanca-land-sale-for-storage-affordable-homes-project/) A vacant Railroad Avenue lot will become self-storage units and four affordable homes, not the larger housing complex once proposed. **Why it matters:** Casa Blanca residents get four homeownership opportunities instead of a bigger multifamily project — though concerns about railroad noise, safety and parking near the tracks remain unresolved. **Driving the news:** Council approved a $650,000 purchase and development agreement with Railroad Ave Storage LLC Tuesday, advancing a plan pairing housing with storage. - The deal includes four three-bedroom homes for households earning up to 80% of area median income and three two-story self-storage buildings totaling about 96,000 square feet. **By the numbers:** - **$650,000** sale price, below the **$860,000** appraised value for the full 4.15 acres - **$15 million** in projected private investment - **70** construction jobs and up to **$187,000** a year in property-tax revenue **What they're saying:** Residents welcomed the smaller footprint but split on remaining risks. - "It was just those four at the end," resident Margie Tadwilliams said of the reduced housing. - Resident Paul Chavez called for a barrier along the tracks, citing derailment, noise and parking concerns. **What's next:** The agreement still needs approval from the Countywide Oversight Board before the project can move forward. [Read and share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/riverside-approves-casa-blanca-land-sale-for-storage-affordable-homes-project/) --- Advertisement ([Become an advertiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/advertise/)) [ ![Advertisement](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone_static/169514/image/0?seed=20260814) ](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone%5Fstatic/169514/click/0?seed=20260814&ref=raincrossgazette.com) --- #### [COMMUNITY](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/community/) ## Public Works Turns Traffic Boxes Into Public Art The City has redesigned 38 traffic signal cabinets so far, with more planned near schools and sites of historic or cultural significance. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2026/08/1-_DSC0417-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/public-works-turns-traffic-boxes-into-public-art/) A traffic signal cabinet painted with a stars-and-stripes design and a portrait of President James Madison stands on a Riverside sidewalk in the Presidential Park neighborhood. (Titus Pardee) Located throughout Riverside's 324 signalized intersections are objects that many drivers pass without a second thought: traffic signal cabinets. Painted in a dull gray, these cabinets quietly contain the equipment that regulates traffic signals throughout the city. Lately, however, some of them have begun standing out rather than blending in. In spring 2025, the Public Works Department launched an initiative to transform ordinary traffic boxes, pieces of infrastructure that are common targets of graffiti, into decorative displays. The program reflects a larger initiative to beautify the city through objects often seen day-to-day. Currently, 38 traffic boxes across Riverside have been redesigned to have a more appealing look. From schools to presidential streets, Public Works is eyeing a diversity of locations that could potentially house the newest redesigned traffic box. Looking ahead, the program plans to expand by highlighting nearby city facilities, as well as other sites that hold historical or cultural significance. [Read and share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/public-works-turns-traffic-boxes-into-public-art/) --- 📣 ****See something? Say something.** Your tips and ideas are what fuel The Raincross Gazette. If you know of something newsworthy happening in our city, please [share it with us](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/contact/). --- #### [Adoptable Pet of the Week](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag//) ## Meet Fruit Loops! Meet this week’s featured furry friend from the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center. Dedicated to eliminating pet homelessness, the center provides compassionate care and facilitates adoptions for animals in need of loving homes. Find your new companion and help support their mission of humane care and responsible pet ownership. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2026/08/1-3.jpg)](https://petsadoption.org/?ref=raincrossgazette.com) Meet Fruit Loops, a 1-year-old sweetheart who thinks everyone is a friend! This beautiful Domestic Shorthair loves being where the people are. She’ll greet you with her friendly personality, follow you around to see what you’re up to, soak up all the attention, and curl up nearby just to be close. And if treats are involved? Even better!Fruit Loops has a cheerful, affectionate spirit that makes her impossible not to love. She’s ready to bring plenty of companionship, cuddles, and happiness into someone’s life. ****Could you be the person she’s been waiting to meet?** Fruit Loops would love to say hello! Please visit her and other adoptable pets at the Pet Adoption Center-6165 Industrial Ave., Riverside 92504\. --- ## What's Happening in Riverside ### Friday, August 14 - [Riverside Sunrise Rotary Club Meeting](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/riverside-sunrise-rotary-club-meeting/18634391/2026-08-14T07) at Zacatecas Café - [Volunteer Interest Hour](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/volunteer-interest-hour/18161070/2026-08-14T09) at Riverside Meals on Wheels - [Courthouse, Murals and Heroes Walking Tour](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/courthouse-murals-and-heroes-walking-tour/19396626/2026-08-14T15) at Mission Inn Foundation ($23.18) - [FREE YOGA - The Evolution of Ashtanga with Kristin Varner](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-the-evolution-of-ashtanga-with-kristin-varner/19060739/2026-08-14T08) at Community Yoga Center - [Hot August Nights](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/hot-august-nights/19472696/2026-08-14T16) at Riverside Elks Lodge #643 - [Little Shop of Horrors 40th Anniversary Screening](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/little-shop-of-horrors-40th-anniversary-screening/18799266/2026-08-14T19) at Fox Performing Arts Center ### Saturday, August 15 - [Arlington Heights Cleanup](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/arlington-heights-cleanup/19426805/2026-08-15T07) at Arlington Heights Sports Park - [Low-Cost Vaccination Clinic](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/lowcost-vaccination-clinic/19030194/2026-08-15T09) at Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center's Spay-Neuter Clinic ($10- $28) - [Botanic Gardens- Twilight Tour](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/botanic-gardens-twilight-tour/19040310/2026-08-15T18) at Botanic Gardens - [The Zonta Club of Riverside presents Join me for a Cup of Coffee or Tea](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/the-zonta-club-of-riverside-presents-join-me-for-a-cup-of-coffee-or-tea/19513887/2026-08-15T13) at The Care Project Office - [FREE YOGA - The Art of Vinyasa with Catherine Murray](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-the-art-of-vinyasa-with-catherine-murray/19503669/2026-08-15T07) at Community Yoga Center - [FREE YOGA - Yin Yoga with Kristin Varner](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-yin-yoga-with-kristin-varner/19503829/2026-08-15T09) at Community Yoga Center - [Goeske Bingo](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/goeske-bingo/17920930/2026-08-15T09) at Janet Goeske Center ($20- $100) - [The Hayds](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/the-hayds-garden-room-rma/19438774/2026-08-15T19) at Riverside Municipal Auditorium- Garden Room - [Los Yonics Zamacona](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/los-yonics-zamacona/19346710/2026-08-15T20) at Fox Performing Arts Center - [MAGIC UNDERGROUND](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/magic-underground/19568202/2026-08-15T18) at Back to the Grind ($30- $45) - [Mosaic Art Fundraiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/mosaic-art-fundraiser/19516335/2026-08-15T10) at Mission Inn Foundation ($100) - [Mt. Rubidoux Walking Tour](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/mt-rubidoux-walking-tour/19390096/2026-08-15T08) at Mt. Rubidoux Trailhead, a short walk from Ryan Bonaminio Park. ($21.20) - [Plant Hope - A pottery decorating and planting event by DVAP](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/plant-hope-a-pottery-decorating-and-planting-event-by-dvap/19458258/2026-08-15T10) at Arlington Library ($15- $25) - [Twilight Tours](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/twilight-tours/19260751/2026-08-15T18) at UCR Botanic Gardens ($15- $20) ### Sunday, August 16 - [Prayers and Public Information Meeting](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/prayers-and-public-information-meeting/16726617/2026-08-16T11) at Riverside Baha'i Center - [Gardening for Butterflies](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/gardening-for-butterflies/19328170/2026-08-16T09) at UCR Botanic Gardens - [Dancing for Fun](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/dancing-for-fun/18329491/2026-08-16T14) at Janet Goeske Center - [Sunday Experiment After Dark](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/sunday-experiment-after-dark/14528750/2026-08-16T21) at Downtown Experiment ### Save the Date - August 17: [FREE YOGA - Moody Mondays with Cherie Amour](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-moody-mondays-with-cherie-amour/19504166/2026-08-17T19) at Community Yoga Center - August 17: [FREE YOGA - The Evolution of Ashtanga with Kristin Varner](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-the-evolution-of-ashtanga-with-kristin-varner/19060739/2026-08-17T08) at Community Yoga Center - August 19: [FREE YOGA - Seated Yoga with Kristin Varner](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-seated-yoga-with-kristin-varner/19504145/2026-08-19T17) at All Saints Episcopal Church - August 21: [Riverside Sunrise Rotary Club Meeting](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/riverside-sunrise-rotary-club-meeting/18634391/2026-08-21T07) at Zacatecas Café - August 22: [FREE YOGA - The Art of Vinyasa with Catherine Murray](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-the-art-of-vinyasa-with-catherine-murray/19503669/2026-08-22T07) at Community Yoga Center - August 22: [FREE YOGA - Yin Yoga with Kristin Varner](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/free-yoga-yin-yoga-with-kristin-varner/19503829/2026-08-22T09) at Community Yoga Center - September 9: [Beginning Square Dance Lessons with Line Dancing](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/beginning-square-dance-lessons-with-line-dancing/19511049/2026-09-09T18) at Cowtown Square Dance Center - September 18: [Open Mic Night](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/open-mic-night/19553682/2026-09-18T19) at Riverside Baha'i Center - Oct 3: [Aquamotion Aquathon](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/aquamotion-aquathon/19617601/2026-10-03T09) at Shamel Pool - October 7: [Fifty & Better Health Fair](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/fifty-better-health-fair/19338673/2026-10-07T10) at Janet Goeske Center 🗓️ [See More Events](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/)📝 [Submit Your Event](https://hub.cityspark.com/Event/Submission/Raincross?ref=raincrossgazette.com) 📸 [Submit a photo](http://raincrossgazette.com/submitphoto?ref=raincrossgazette.com) to be featured in our newsletters and social media accounts. 🏆 [Nominate a remarkable Riversider](https://rgnotw.paperform.co/?ref=raincrossgazette.com) as Neighbor of the Week.