SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2024) - The city of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus will host a free community event to celebrate the grand opening of Little Blue Dog Run, its new off-leash dog run, on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place at Big Blue Bus headquarters, located at 1660 7th St.
Led by Big Blue Bus, in strong collaboration with Santa Monica's Public Works Department, general contractor Ramco, and architect SWA Group, this revitalization project will transform an underutilized area next to Big Blue Bus headquarters into a vibrant green space for the community. Little Blue Dog Run amenities include fenced exercise areas for dogs of all sizes, dog drinking fountains, trees, and a picnic area with seating.
"This project aligns with our mission to improve the lives of those we serve by promoting connection, access, and mobility, while also contributing to a clean and safe Santa Monica," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "It transforms a busy Big Blue Bus stop and layover, served by three routes, into a dynamic community gathering space designed to enhance safety for our riders and staff through the installation of improved lighting and additional security cameras along the entire block."
The kick-off will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, pet safety demonstrations from Santa Monica's Most Loved awardee Love At First Sit, and agility demonstrations from local business Fitdog. Santa Monica Animal Shelter staff will introduce residents to dogs available for adoption and the Santa Monica Veterinary Group will distribute free exam vouchers to attendees. The main event, a Doggie Fall Fashion Show, encourages community members to enter their pups to win amazing prizes donated by local partners including Wag Hotels, Silly Dog, Westside Dog Gang, Love At First Sit, Fitdog, and the Santa Monica Veterinary Group.
The project advances the city of Santa Monica's strategic priorities of Clean & Safe and Economic Growth & Cultural Vitality, providing a safe, clean, green space for Santa Monica residents and their pets.
To learn more about the grand opening event and register for the Doggie Fall Fashion Show, visit: santamonica.gov/events
About Big Blue Bus
Big Blue Bus, a service of the city of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2031. Currently, 10 percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.