Agoura Hills: Wildlife Crossing Enters Final Phase
The long-planned Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing at Liberty Canyon reached its final construction phase in October. This $90+ million overpass (slated for completion by late 2026) will eventually link the Santa Monica Mountains to the Simi Hills over US 101. To build the last segment, Caltrans closed a section of Agoura Road to through traffic on weekdays (Oct. 2025–June 2026). Local residents maintain normal access, while all other traffic is detoured to the 101 freeway. A shuttle bus is being provided for cyclists and pedestrians during the closure. When finished, the verdant 165‑ft‑wide bridge – hailed as the world’s largest wildlife crossing – will be carpeted with native plants and habitat, allowing mountain lions, deer and other wildlife to cross safely over the freeway.
Source: California Gov
Malibu: Foreign Buyers Flood Market as Rebuilding Lags
In the wake of Malibu’s summer fires, the local rebuild has stalled – only four rebuilding permits have been issued so far, versus hundreds in other fire-impacted communities. Appointed in May to help speed recovery, volunteer “Rebuild Ambassador” Abe Roy resigned in late September, citing frustration at the slow permitting process. With rebuilding delayed, many owners have sold their burned-out beachfront lots at 20–60% discounts. Remarkably, two brothers from New Zealand have quietly bought roughly $65 million of Malibu lots in recent months, part of a surge of international investors snapping up coastal land. Locals worry this influx could change Malibu’s character, even as leaders say all buyers are welcome if they invest in rebuilding.
Source: LA Times
Malibu Moves: New Zuma Beach Fitness Festival Debuts
Late October saw the debut of Malibu Moves, a two-day fitness and community festival at Zuma Beach. The sold-out event drew over 2,000 runners, walkers and families to the scenic coast for 5K, 10K, half-marathon and kids’ runs. Organizers emphasized that Malibu Moves was about more than exercise – it was explicitly created to celebrate resilience and raise funds for recovery. By the end of the weekend, the festival donated $83,650 to local nonprofits (like the Malibu Education and Emily Shane Foundations and community fire brigades) that are driving the area’s post-fire relief. Founder Erica Segel noted that seeing “thousands of people come together in the name of wellness, inclusion, and community” was a hopeful sign that Malibu is rebuilding stronger than ever.
PC: Jeff Drongowski
Source: malibumoves.com
Westlake Village: Vision 2035 Public Open House
Westlake Village city government launched its Vision 2035 Strategic Plan in 2025, and in October it invited residents to share ideas for the city’s future. On Oct. 29 the City held an open house meeting (at City Hall’s community rooms) where people reviewed accomplishments of the previous decade and provided input on topics like parks, housing, economic vitality and public safety. A related online survey was also available (through the city’s website) to gather broader feedback on residents’ priorities. City leaders say this long-range planning process will guide Westlake Village policy and budget decisions through 2035.
Source: Westlake Village City
Malibu Expedites Post-Fire Rebuild Efforts
Malibu city leaders say the rebuild is accelerating. As of late October the City has already issued 354 permits for debris removal, repairs and reconstruction, with 92 planning approvals and several new single-family building permits issued (and more on the way). Council and staff have streamlined the process: review steps were cut in half, a one‑stop portal launched and even a new “fee waiver” program now eliminates city planning and building permit fees for like‑for‑like owner‑occupied home rebuilds. Planning Director Yolanda Bundy notes that innovative tools (including an AI-based plan review demo in early October) are helping local architects speed projects through permitting. Officials stress community input – through zone captains and public meetings – is shaping policy so that homes come back “stronger, safer, and more united”. Malibu’s rebuilding focus remains “careful, compassionate, and with purpose,” reflecting the resilience of its hillside neighborhoods.
Source: Malibu City
Malibu Plans for Rising Seas and Coastal Risks
Malibu’s council is also turning an eye to long-term climate threats. In late October a coastal vulnerability study was presented showing that Malibu’s 21-mile coastline – including Pacific Coast Highway, beachfront homes and septic systems – faces significant flood and erosion risks as seas rise. The consultant’s modeling warns that even a 2.5–6.6 ft rise could inundate low-lying neighborhoods and PCH in major storms. City leaders plan to use this report in coming adaptation planning: beginning in 2026 the study team will develop mitigation strategies (from dune restoration to engineered sea walls) to protect communities. Officials stressed that current homes won’t be forced down, but future rebuilding and new development may need to meet stricter coastal standards. Mayor Marianne Riggins said early mitigation efforts are already being discussed, inspired by other coastal cities’ examples. The final report (due in 2026) will include flood maps and possible projects, helping Malibu update its Local Coastal Program and keep the shoreline resilient in coming decades.
Source: Santa Monica Daily Press