Burning Questions

August 19, 2024

Why Are There Pedestrian Gates at Train Tracks?

"What's the point of pedestrian gates at train tracks—such as on Butterfly Lane in Montecito and on State Street below Yanonali—when there's a big open space right next to it?" 2

July 29, 2024

Is This Summerland’s Original Train Station?

"I’m hoping you'll look into whether or not this 'Summerland Depot' outside the listing on Finney Street is the actual, original train depot for Summerland." 1

June 10, 2024

What Does the “S” on Certain Chimneys Stand For?

"805 Soledad Avenue has an 'S' on the chimney. I see this 'S' all over San Roque, the Westside, and other places. It seems to be mainly on 1930s houses, many of which lean toward Tudor styles. Is it a builder’s signature?" —S.

April 30, 2024

What’s the Status of the Decommissioning of Rincon Island?

"What's happening with Rincon Island? We live in La Conchita and have heard many different rumors. Any update would be appreciated." —K. 2

April 24, 2024

What Happened to the Gas Flame on Highway 101?

"On the way home from a concert in Ventura, I realized that I have a 'burning question.' (No pun intended.) What happened to the flame that used to be on the side of the freeway?" —J. 6

April 1, 2024

What Do We Know About the Proposed Apartment Complex at 1 Hot Springs Road?

"A client asked about the apartment complex in the works at 1 Hot Springs Road. Have you heard anything about it? Any idea when it might break ground?" —J. 5

March 25, 2024

Why Is the Castillo Street Undercrossing Always Wet?

The high water table is to blame, and a complete overhaul of the undercrossing is unlikely. In the meantime, the city is working on improvements to the area that should alleviate the problem for cyclists. 1

February 12, 2024

What’s the History of This Tower on Ortega Ridge?

"I was on a trail run with some friends behind Summerland. We were on Hunt Drive and when you look across where the Ortega Reservoir is, there's a house up on the hill that seems very old. From a distance, it looks like it may have a clock tower. Would you have any information about this building? Maybe it was a school or a commercial building back in the day?" —B. 2

January 4, 2024

What’s Up With These Sculptures on a Hillside in Summerland?

"Near the beginning of the trail we passed by a fenced field with some large, strange sculptures—including giant grenades! I thought you might know something about why these pieces are in that location. It is an exhibit? Storage?" —C. 1

December 29, 2023

Is There a Master Plan for the New Walking Paths in Montecito?

"I see the new walking paths are making headway down Sycamore Canyon Road. Do you know if there's an overall master plan for these walkways?" —F. 5