Times are tough for a lot of people, but they’re still making their way out to the Streets of Brentwood in increasing numbers.

“Since we opened, traffic out here has done nothing but increase and I think that says a lot about the strength of the area,” said Tracey Nobil, The Streets’ general manager. “We fill an interesting Delta niche.”

Since the popular lifestyle center opened 18 months ago, the open-air mall has helped to boost the city’s sales tax revenue by 8 percent, helping to make Brentwood the only city in Contra Costa County to show a gain in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Over the next few months, The Streets will prepare to welcome new retailers and restaurants to its existing variety of specialty shops, contemporary clothiers, well-known restaurants and 14-screen multiplex cinema. Newcomers include Subway, Brentwood’s homegrown Grazie! Italian restaurant, Mel’s Diner and the eclectic Bangkok 101.

“We’ve been listening to what the community wants in terms of restaurants and amenities here,” said Nobil. “And we’re very excited to be able to bring them some of what they’ve asked for.”

As shoppers have also been asking for more retail choices, The Streets will soon be welcoming Fusion 3 Salon & Spa as well as Glamorá by Sadie, a high-end boutique specializing in apparel from Prada and other designers.

Another part of the facility’s appeal lies in its family-friendly setting and abundance of community-oriented events.

“There’s just so much happening out here,” said Nobil.

On June 17, The Streets will host an event featuring representatives of all East County chambers of commerce – a meet-and-greet mixer providing information about area nonprofit agencies and volunteer programs.

Beginning in July and running through September, the Brentwood Art Society will present a series of three musical theater events (to be specified soon) under the stars at The Streets. Directed by Brentwood impresario Steve Kinsella, the productions will be performed on a clamshell stage surrounded by seating for 250.

Music will continue to enhance The Streets’ atmosphere this summer with a lineup of concerts kicked off by the Dave Russell Band on June 18, followed by Rawk Kandy on June 25 and the Brentwood Concert Band on July 2 featuring a special Fourth of July celebration. On July 18, American bluesman Kenny Neal will be on hand for a special performance. All concerts will be held Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. Other dates for the season will be confirmed in the next few weeks.

“It’s all very exciting,” said Nobil. “There’s a lifestyle out here in Brentwood that people love and we’re trying to bring that sense of summertime, neighborhood and fun to The Streets.”

The Streets of Brentwood is located at 2565 Sand Creek Road. For additional information, call 925-516-8500 or visit www.shopstreetsofbrentwood.com.