Damien Newton
371 POSTS
Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.
You Don’t Need a TAP Card for the BBB Anymore
Big Blue Bus riders can now pay their fare by simply tapping a contactless credit or debit card, or a mobile wallet such as...
City Approves MOU with Coastal Commission
The first half of the story was written with an AI Assist.This week, the city council approved a memorandum of understanding with the California...
Here’s How to Vote Before Election Day in California
With the June 2, 2026, Election Day approaching, California election officials are encouraging voters to make a plan now for returning their ballots or...
City Opens Applications for Boards and Commissions Seats
Santa Monica residents interested in shaping city policy and governance will soon have a chance to apply for dozens of openings on city boards...
California Climate Funding Fight Pits Transit and Housing Advocates Against Oil Industry Giveaways
A looming overhaul of California’s cap-and-trade program is raising alarm among transit advocates, affordable housing organizations, and environmental justice groups, who warn the state...
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This Sunday is “Main Street Sunday Funday”
Sunday, August 23 | 8:30 a.m. through the eveningMain...
Driver Smashes Plastic Bollards on 23rd Street Bike Lane
Bicycle advocates have long argued that using plastic bollards...
Historic Restoration Complete at Santa Monica Airport
Every week, Next republishes a piece from City Manager...
The Santa Monica/Coastal Commission Bill Is Still Alive, and the Rest of the Legislative Update from Streetsblog California
Assembly Bill 1740 has been significantly amended since its...

