ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The City of Elk Grove celebrated its 25th anniversary during the annual State of the City Address held June 10 at the District56 Center.

Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen delivered the keynote speech, reflecting on the city’s history, celebrating its growth and outlining plans for the future.

City Manager Jason Behrmann opened the event by thanking dignitaries in attendance, including representatives from the Wilton Rancheria Tribe, elected officials, the school district and local agencies. He then invited Singh-Allen to the podium to deliver the state of the city address.

The mayor began by noting that Elk Grove officially became a city on July 1, 2000, where it transformed from a growing suburb into the second-largest city in the Sacramento region.

“Much like the medal that commemorates our silver anniversary, Elk Grove has become more precious over time,” she said.

Singh-Allen emphasized that the city’s progress reflects the strength and diversity of its residents.

“We celebrate how far we’ve come and look forward to an even brighter future,” she said.

She recognized key contributors to the city’s formation, including the Elk Grove Incorporation Committee, which helped establish Elk Grove as the “first city of the new millennium.” Former Mayors Sophia Scherman and Steve Detrick were also honored for their service.

As a testament to the city’s success in creating a great community, Singh-Allen shared articles published nationwide and throughout the state that list Elk Grove among the best cities to live in.

Architectural Digest ranked the city as the 18th-most luxurious city in the country, and it is the fifth-best mid-size city for diversity in the nation, according to Filterbuy. Consumer Affairs named Elk Grove the fourth-best city to buy a home in California, and this year, MoneyInc.com named the city among the Top 20 most affordable places to live in the state.

“This kind of recognition reinforces what all of us have known for years. Elk Grove is truly a wonderful place to work, live and raise a family,” said Singh-Allen.

The mayor shared how her family moved to Elk Grove more than 30 years ago when it was largely undeveloped. Ever since then, Singh-Allen said, she saw the potential for growth. Now, the community is significantly bigger and has created its own unique scene with its new shops, local restaurants, parks and diversity.

“It is a city that is still evolving but hasn’t forgotten its roots. We have a proud heritage that we can appreciate and celebrate,” Singh-Allen said.

The Cosumnes Community Services District, which is celebrating 40 years of service, was recognized for providing parks, fire protection and recreation even long before the incorporation of Elk Grove.

Volunteers on city advisory boards, including planning commissioners and oversight committee members, were also recognized by the mayor and applauded for their contributions.

Singh-Allen said that Elk Grove took control over its “development destiny” 25 years ago, leading to investments in key roadways, buildings and community spaces.

“Since incorporation, we’ve completed over 200 capital projects and more than $612 million has been invested in infrastructure that supports the quality of life,” said Singh-Allen. “We are continuing to build our city to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.”

New projects include a library, the Laguna Creek pedestrian bridge, the Kammerer Road extension to Interstate 5, a permanent homeless shelter and a new Highway 99 interchange at Whitelock Parkway.

The mayor highlighted the city’s dedication to public safety, which has made Elk Grove one of the safest cities in the nation. She said that the city was ranked this year as No. 8 in safety in the United States, according to MoneyGeek.

Singh-Allen discussed the city’s current “retail and restaurant renaissance,” noting the growing number of small businesses and restaurants sparking transformation in the community. She said Elk Grove boasts one of the region’s best Asian food scenes, and Sky River Casino’s hotel expansion, expected to be completed by 2027, is forecast to further boost local entertainment.

On housing, Singh-Allen said Elk Grove has added more than 2,000 affordable units in the last 25 years, a 600% increase.

“In a region and state facing a housing crisis, it’s still not enough,” she said, pledging continued collaboration with developers to create homes for working families and seniors.

The city plans to roll out improvements to its first-time homebuyer program later this year to help more families settle down, said Singh-Allen.

While Elk Grove has the lowest population of unhoused individuals per capita, Singh-Allen said there are still many residents who lack a roof over their heads. With the passing of community-backed Measure E, the city has developed strategies to combat this issue and help individuals get back on their feet, such as hiring homeless services navigators and outreach teams.

Sustainability was another focus. Singh-Allen mentioned the city’s climate action plan, new e-bike lending program and incentives encouraging residents to choose alternative transportation.

“The changes we are making are all for generations that follow. As Boomers, Gen X, millennials and Gen Z, we are shaping the future for generations alpha, beta and beyond,” she said.

In terms of innovation, Singh-Allen said that through programs such as StartupSac and Pitch Elk Grove, local entrepreneurs have access to tools they need to thrive without having to be in a Silicon Valley zip code.

“Elk Grove is ready for bold moves,” Singh-Allen said. “We have the courage to dream big, act fast and put our community at the heart of every decision. … The best is yet to come.”