Santa Monica Leaders Targeted Economic Growth

City officials outlined strategies to convert major event attendance into sustained local business activity.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a geometric architectural facade, representing Santa Monica's urban development and economic growth strategy. — Santa Monica city officials are implementing a three-stage strategy to ensure major global event attendance translates into sustained local economic growth. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe major events provide lasting economic benefits for your local community?

Santa Monica city leaders met at a Builders Breakfast to discuss leveraging upcoming global events for long-term growth. The strategy focuses on converting temporary visitor traffic into permanent local economic value.

Why it matters

The city aims to maximize the impact of global exposure from upcoming events like the Super Bowl and LA28. Leaders intend to ensure this attention translates into lasting financial stability for Santa Monica businesses.

The city's Realignment Plan represents a $60 million investment over 24 months. Crime has declined 12.5% while the Santa Monica Police Department reports full staffing.

The players

Santa Monica Police Department

The local law enforcement agency responsible for public safety and the enforcement of city codes.

Community Collective

An organization that coordinates local business events and strategic growth initiatives.

The details

City officials are utilizing a three-stage strategy to capture, convert, and retain visitor traffic. Development progress is being tracked publicly through the Santa Monica Scorecard, which highlights seven housing projects and $3 million dedicated to tenant improvements.

The city adopted its Realignment Plan last year.
Community Collective held the second Builders Breakfast on September 29, 2026.
Community Collective will host events during LA Tech Week in October 2026.
A gathering in Long Beach is scheduled for October 21, 2026.
A Swiss Winter holiday village will run on the Pier from mid-November 2026 to January 2027.

Market Landscape

The city's strategy follows the framework established by the Santa Monica Realignment Plan. This effort positions Santa Monica to capture a larger share of regional tourism revenue compared to neighboring business districts.

Residents may see an increase in local event activity and improved business occupancy along the Third Street Promenade. These developments are intended to boost the city's overall tax base and local commercial vibrancy.

The takeaway

City leaders are actively working to ensure that global event traffic provides tangible economic benefits for local residents. Business owners and residents can monitor development progress via the city's public scorecard.