QuickReads | Arts, Community Highlights & City Updates!
The Petros & Money Show
I had a great time visiting The Petros & Money Show (AM 570) at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse. We talked about Irvine’s economy and what makes our City a great place to live, work, and play—and yes, it’s true: I was once the quarterback at North Hollywood High School.
Animal Care Center Update
Irvine Animal Care Center is moving forward with its expansion and renovation, adding a welcoming new entrance, an updated reception area, animal interaction spaces, flexible rooms for events and training, upgraded kennels, improved climate control, redesigned activity yards, and a state-of-the-art clinic. The Center remains open throughout construction.
Art at City Hall
Hope Center for the Arts: Be Seen, an inspiring exhibition showcasing artwork created through HOPE’s studio programs. The nonprofit organization supports adult artists with intellectual disabilities through training in visual and performing arts. Be Seen is exhibiting at City Hall through March 20 and is open to the public.
Public Works & Sustainability Department
January Construction Update
Our Public Works professionals are making steady progress on key infrastructure improvements:
Walnut & Deerfield: Sidewalks are nearly done; paving starts next month.
Jamboree & Michelson: Bridge work is progressing well as we move to the east side. The Jamboree & Michelson Pedestrian Bridge project includes the construction of a 175-foot-long bridge traversing Jamboree Road at Michelson Drive.
JOST/I-5 Bridge: Teams are currently finishing up the concrete and wall work.
Accessibility: We’re continuing to upgrade driveways and sidewalks in the Irvine Business Complex.
Read the full report here: mayorlarryagran.org/s/Capital-Projects-Monthly-Report-January-2026.pdf.
Lunar New Year Parade & Festival
Join us Saturday, February 7, at Great Park Live for the first-ever Lunar New Year Parade. The Asian American Museum will welcome the Year of the Horse with floats and marching bands in the morning, followed by a full afternoon of food and performances. Be sure to stop by my booth and say hi.
Event schedule and information: cityofirvine.org/news-media/calendar-of-events/event/lunar-new-year-parade-festival.
New Pickleball Courts at Mike Ward Park
We’re officially opening eight new lighted courts on Tuesday, February 3, at 3 p.m. We’ve installed sound-dampening barriers and new shade structures to ensure a great experience for players and the neighborhood alike.
Learn more here: cityofirvine.org/racket-sports/pickleball.
Free Tax Filing Services
The City of Irvine, in partnership with Orange County United Way, is offering free tax preparation assistance to taxpayers who earned less than $69,000 in 2025. IRS-trained volunteers will be available at the Harvard Community Center on Tuesdays, February 3 through April 7, to help residents file and claim eligible tax credits. Appointments are required.
Book an appointment or learn more: cityofirvine.org/news-media/calendar-of-events/event/free-tax-filing-services.