Damien Newton
327 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.
California Just Pulled the Rug Out From Under Transit
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) voted Friday to approve sweeping changes to the state’s cap-and-trade (or cap-and-invest) program, moving forward despite warnings from...
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...
Latest
OPA Update 6/22/26: OPA Membership Drive, Beach Clean-Up this Weekend, & Things To Do This Week
OPA Membership Drive: If you enjoy this newsletter and all the...
Kool Happenings: Weak Tea, and A Hotbed of Cold Feet
Weak TeaI don't often find myself asking AI about...
Pacific Wheel Illuminates Juneteenth with Special Tribute Light Display on June 19
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier will commemorate...
OPA Update 6/18/26: Main St. Summer Soulstice & Make Music LA Events This Weekend, & Other Things To Do This Weekend
June 20 & 21 Main St. Summer Soulstice & Make...

