November was a month of big moves and bigger connections. We saw Malibu take a historic step toward educational independence, Agoura Hills break ground on the next phase of its landmark bridge, and Westlake Village revitalize its dining scene just in time for the holidays. From infrastructure to local legends, here is the essential wrap-up of how our coast and canyons transformed this month.
Malibu
School Separation Agreements:
On November 18, Malibu and the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District released three "foundational agreements" to formalize their educational divorce. These documents outline the division of billions in assets and establish a revenue-sharing formula to ensure financial stability for both districts. The separation is moving quickly, with final ratification votes scheduled for early December.
Dick Van Dyke’s "Vandy Tea":
Entertainment legend Dick Van Dyke hosted a charitable "Vandy Tea" at his Malibu estate on November 30 to support the arts. The 99-year-old icon performed songs from his career, including "Let's Go Fly a Kite," reinforcing his status as an active and beloved member of the community.
Rain Barrel Giveaway:
The City partnered with the West Basin Municipal Water District on November 22 to distribute free 50-gallon rain barrels to residents. This initiative addresses both drought resilience and stormwater management, helping to prevent polluted runoff from entering the Santa Monica Bay.
PCH Roundabouts Project:
The city announced a pivotal community meeting regarding the proposal to install roundabouts on the Pacific Coast Highway. This complex infrastructure project aims to reduce traffic speeds and improve safety in response to pressure from state agencies and local advocates.
Agoura Hills
Agoura Road Closure:
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing project has entered "Phase 2," necessitating a full closure of Agoura Road between Rondell Street and Hydepark Drive. From November 12 through June 2026, the road will be closed on weekdays to facilitate massive earthwork and utility undergrounding.
Bicycle Master Plan:
The city’s planning department is advancing a Bicycle Master Plan that proposes adding 30.1 miles of new bikeways to the network. The plan includes a "mitigation banking" program, allowing developers to purchase credits that fund bike infrastructure to offset the traffic impacts of their projects.
Westlake Village
Commercial Development:
November saw significant movement in the city's culinary landscape with confirmed construction activity at the Westlake Plaza. Crews were spotted renovating the former Natural Cafe location to prepare for the arrival of Cava, a popular Mediterranean fast-casual chain, marking a highly anticipated addition to the local dining mix.
Community & Philanthropy:
The Westlake Village Community Foundation convened on November 18, continuing its work to manage local philanthropic funds. Meanwhile, the city ramped up preparations for the annual Holiday Sing-Along, aggressively promoting the December 7th event which features partnerships with the Manna food bank and a "Holiday Giving Drive" for Casa Pacifica.
For over two decades, Shen Realty has connected clients to exclusive Malibu Real Estate, Westlake Village properties, and Agoura Hills homes for sale. As a premier Real Estate Agency in Malibu, we provide the hyper-local expertise you need to navigate this market. Whether you are looking for the best real estate agent in Agoura Hills or coastal guidance, let us help you find the view you’ll never want to leave.