What the Montana Avenue Board Is Working On
The Montana Avenue Merchants Association board is actively working on projects that support local businesses, strengthen the district, and create welcoming experiences for the community. Below are the major initiatives currently in progress.
Upcoming Community Events
Dog Days on Montana
The board is planning Dog Days, a pet-friendly community event featuring local businesses, dog-related vendors, adoption groups, raffles, and family-friendly activities. The event will also help promote upcoming Montana Avenue programming.
Montana Avenue Artwalk
Planning is underway for Artwalk, one of Montana Avenue’s major annual events. The board is working on sponsorships, merchant participation, entertainment, promotional materials, and ways to bring more visitors to the street.
Holiday Walk
The board is reviewing and planning this year’s Holiday Walk, including the event format, timing, safety needs, tree lighting, holiday activations, and ways to preserve the neighborhood tradition while supporting merchants.
Business District Improvements
Sidewalk and Streetscape Maintenance
The board is working with the City on sidewalk cleaning, power washing, trash can updates, and general streetscape improvements to keep Montana Avenue clean, attractive, and welcoming.
Utility Box Beautification
The board is exploring a small-scale utility box painting project to improve the look of Montana Avenue’s public spaces. Initial efforts may begin with one or two traffic-signal utility boxes.
Merchant Support and Promotion
Medical Office Outreach Program
The board is developing a promotional program to connect nearby Wilshire medical offices with Montana Avenue businesses. The goal is to encourage employees, patients, and visitors to shop, dine, and spend time on Montana Avenue.
SantaMonica.com and Tourism Promotion
The board is encouraging merchants to keep their SantaMonica.com listings updated and to share events, photos, and promotions that can help attract visitors to Montana Avenue.
Concierge and Visitor Outreach
The board is evaluating opportunities to reach hotel concierges and visitors through partnerships, events, and promotional campaigns that highlight Montana Avenue businesses.
Events and Merchant Activations
Entertainment Zone Planning
The board is coordinating with the City on Entertainment Zone requirements and training so eligible businesses can participate in future events involving alcohol service, including Artwalk.
Late-Night Thursday Opportunities
The board is exploring interest in extended Thursday evening hours and activations. Rather than forcing a formal program, the current approach is to support merchants who are already interested in staying open later.
Board Development and Governance
Annual Meeting and Board Recruitment
The board is preparing for the annual meeting and upcoming elections. Recruitment is underway for merchant and resident board members, with a focus on keeping the board active, balanced, and representative of the Montana Avenue community.