Ventura County Transportation Commission to Remove Call Boxes Along Ventura County Highways

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The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) recently announced the end of its emergency call box program, marking a significant shift in how roadside assistance will be provided across the county’s highways. Since 2004, over 58,000 calls have been made from the 427 call boxes maintained by VCTC, but usage has dropped dramatically due to the widespread adoption of personal cell phones. In 2005, the system handled more than 5,800 calls, but by 2024, that number had plummeted to just 849. Faced with declining demand and mounting maintenance challenges, VCTC voted in May to decommission the program and begin removing the call boxes, with full removal expected by September 1, 2025.

The call boxes, which operate on AT&T’s 4G network and connect directly to California Highway Patrol dispatch, have become increasingly difficult to maintain. The state’s only maintenance contractor suspended its regular inspections, and VCTC’s contract for upkeep expired in June 2025. With no viable alternatives that meet state guidelines for call box technology, VCTC decided not to renew the contract. The system’s annual operating costs—between $350,000 and $400,000—are funded by a $1 vehicle registration fee collected from Ventura County residents.

In place of the call box system, VCTC is exploring several alternative motorist aid services. These include expanding the Freeway Service Patrol (FSP), which has offered free roadside assistance since 2021 along segments of Highways 101, 118, and 23 during peak hours. Other options under review include increasing signage for the SoCal 511 emergency phone system and enhancing traffic enforcement through extended agreements with the CHP. These initiatives aim to maintain and improve emergency support for motorists while making more efficient use of public funds.

More details about the FSP and SoCal 511 programs can be found at goventura.org/fsp and go511.com, respectively.

kidSTREAM Children's Museum "Pathway to Play" Brick & Legacy Campaign

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kidSTREAM Children’s Museum is an emerging, hands-on destination dedicated to inspiring children through meaningful play-based learning. Designed especially for kids under 12 years old, kidSTREAM offers opportunities to explore Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STREAM) through interactive exhibits and programs that spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. kidSTREAM’s mission is to provide a vibrant, engaging environment where young children can discover, imagine, and learn through play, fostering a lifelong love of exploration and learning. Once open, admission will be comparable to other children’s museums in Southern California, ensuring accessibility for families throughout the region.

At completion, the museum, located at 3100 Ponderosa Drive in Camarillo (the former Camarillo Public Library site), will feature over 30,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. A grand opening of Phase 1 of the Museum is anticipated by the end of 2025 and will feature 21,000 sq. ft. of indoor/outdoor exhibit space. Outdoor exhibits will highlight local and regional themes (agriculture, Channel Islands, camping, pygmy mammoth dig pit, etc.). Phase 1 indoor exhibits will include an early childhood microbiology area, creative studio and maker space, sensory room, and more.

Currently in its pre-opening phase, kidSTREAM is working towards creating a world-class children’s museum that serves families throughout Ventura County and beyond. As part of this effort, the museum has launched its Brick Legacy Campaign, a public initiative allowing individuals and organizations to leave a lasting mark on kidSTREAM’s future home. By purchasing a personalized brick, bench, or log seat, supporters can help fund immersive exhibits, innovative programming, and expanded access for all children while creating a permanent pathway to play. This campaign invites the community to join us in shaping a place where every child can experience the joy of discovery for generations to come.

Learn more at kidstream.org/brick-legacy-campaign and www.kidstream.org.

Inca Kingdom Peruvian Cafe Now Open in Thousand Oaks

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The Inca Kingdom Cafe recently opened in the Sun Plaza at 670 Thousand Oaks Blvd in Thousand Oaks, serving Peruvian dishes such as Lomo Saltado, Arroz con Pollo, and specialty dishes from the Andes. Adjoining the cafe is the Little Sedona Market, which has an assortment of crystals, jewelry, gifts, and some Peruvian grocery items. This location was previously occupied by Garden India Restaurant & Grocery. Learn more and see their menu at littlesedona.com.

Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Le Macaron French Pastries of Thousand Oaks on August 8th

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Le Macaron French Pastries, a boutique-style French pâtisserie concept known for their French delicacies, announces the grand opening of its newest location in Thousand Oaks. The celebration will take place on Friday, August 8, at Janss Marketplace, 205 N Moorpark Road, Suite E. (next to the children’s playground).

Elizabeth (Liz) Carpenter, owner of Le Macaron French Pastries of Thousand Oaks, has called California home for over 25 years, and after many years of experience in customer service, was ready for a new challenge and opportunity. As a wife and mother of two, Liz was drawn to Le Macaron’s family-operated organization, elegant European aesthetic, and variety of products.

The café features authentic French macarons in over 20 flavors, including bestsellers and bold varieties like Sicilian Pistachio and Lavender White Chocolate. The macarons served are made from authentic ingredients, with each flavor offering a unique pastry experience. Hand-crafted using a traditional French recipe and authentic French patisserie chef, they provide a sweet indulgence at only 80 calories per macaron.

In addition to macarons, customers can enjoy artisan gelato, rich European style coffee and signature pastries, such as éclairs, tarts, and meringues. The cozy boutique also offers curated gift boxes and luxury packaging, perfect for celebrations like birthdays, baby showers, and weddings.

For more information, visit www.lemacaron-us.com or www.facebook.com/lemacaronthousandoaks.

Hyatt Regency Westlake Announces Drop Yard Food Truck Park to Open Later This Year

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The Hyatt Regency Westlake announces the addition of Drop Yard, a 40,000 sq. ft. food truck park slated to open by the end of 2025. It will be located at the corner of Westlake Blvd and the 101 south onramp, with access on Village Glen. Drop Yard owners are partnering with the Hyatt in establishing and maintaining the venue.

Drop Yard will host rotating food trucks, beer and wine, local pop-up vendors, a game area, a stage area for live music, and family-friendly events. The overflow parking area slated for the site will be transformed over the coming months to include new pavement and artificial turf areas for family seating.

Stay tuned for more information over the coming months.

Oakwell Mixed-Use Project in Newbury Park Underway at 2150 W. Hillcrest Road

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Demolition of former Amgen building underway at 2150 w. hillcrest Road.

The former Amgen property at 2150 W. Hillcrest Road (at Rancho Conejo Blvd (behind the Chevron station) is being redeveloped into a 333 unit mixed-use development with 6,500 retail sq ft. Named "Oakwell," the project will include 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units averaging 948 sq ft and is being developed by The Latigo Group, which also built the Santal development across from Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. It is anticipated to be completed sometime next year. Learn more at www.latigo-group.com/properties/oakwell.