Oakland Celebrates Olympic Champion, Restaurant Week Kicks Off, and Major Roadwork Continues

City Rallies for Olympic Gold Medalist

Oakland is gathering at Frank Ogawa Plaza today to celebrate hometown figure skating champion Alysa Liu. The public rally outside City Hall runs from noon to 1:30 p.m., with doors opening earlier in the morning.

City leaders are expected to speak, and Liu will address the crowd as the community marks her double gold medal win at the Winter Games. Officials say the event is free but required advance registration due to high demand.

Oakland Restaurant Week Returns

Also starting today, Oakland Restaurant Week runs through March 22, offering special menus and promotions at eateries across the city. The 10-day event is designed to spotlight local chefs and drive foot traffic to neighborhood restaurants.

Participating spots range from longtime favorites to newer establishments, with prix fixe meals and limited-time dishes aimed at showcasing Oakland’s culinary diversity. Organizers say the event continues to grow each year as diners look for ways to support local businesses.

Major Construction Underway on Oakland-Alameda Access Project

Drivers should plan for ongoing nighttime work tied to the Oakland Alameda Access Project, which began earlier this month. The multi-phase Caltrans effort is aimed at improving connections between I-880 and the Webster and Posey tubes.

Construction is scheduled primarily overnight, with temporary lane closures and parking restrictions in parts of West Oakland. Officials say the long-term goal is to reduce congestion and improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians traveling between Oakland and Alameda.

What to Know

With a major civic celebration, a boost for local restaurants, and continued roadwork, today reflects the mix of pride, progress, and practical challenges that define Oakland life.

Sources

https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/oakland-alysa-liu-celebration-rally/4047296/
https://www.visitoakland.com/press-releases/post/oakland-restaurant-week-returns-march-12-22-2026/
https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-4/d4-news/2026-02-27-oaap-begins-construction