They’re robo-cops. Santa Monica has become the first city in California to crack down on bike lane violations using security cams powered by artificial intelligence. The initiative targets vehicles that illegally park that stop or park illegally in the cyclist’s side of the road, forcing peddlers into the street where the risk of an accident … Read more
Southern California’s very first Gap store is packing up its khaki trousers and denim jackets for good soon, swapping out retail history for high-density apartments. The historic storefront on Wilshire Boulevard and 20th Street in Santa Monica is set to close July 23, after several decades of operation. “Gap has been proud to be part … Read more
Los Angeles’ food scene just got a major dose of ’90s nostalgia with the opening of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed pizzeria in the heart of Santa Monica. Foodies are already buzzing about the premium prices — with full pies ranging from $39 to $54 — but the bigger question is whether the experience is … Read more
Santa Monica’s iconic Pacific Park is officially turning 30, marking three decades since amusement rides returned to the famed Santa Monica Pier for the first time since the 1930s. The beloved oceanfront attraction celebrated the milestone Tuesday with a birthday-themed light show on its world-famous Pacific Wheel, displaying “Happy Birthday” messages, anniversary graphics, and a … Read more
Finally some good news about the Third Street Promenade area of Santa Monica, which has seen rampant closures in recent months and years. Mayor Caroline Torosis told the California Post the Entertainment Zone model that allows for open alcohol consumption, adopted in the summer of 2025, is working. “We’re testing out what works and what … Read more
A Santa Monica product designer is putting hard numbers to what locals have long known in their bones: nearly three in 10 storefronts on the Third Street Promenade sit empty. The designer built an interactive map tracking occupancy along the corridor, and the numbers aren’t pretty — 28.5% of storefronts are vacant, a bleak snapshot … Read more