Alamo Pintado Creek Bridge Replacement and Wildwood Apartments: A Perfect Storm for Solvang

August 13th, 2024

Solvang, CA – As the summer of 2029 approaches, Solvang residents are bracing for a wave of construction projects that could dramatically affect their daily lives. At the heart of these concerns are the simultaneous commencement of the Alamo Pintado Creek Bridge Replacement project and the controversial Wildwood Apartment development.

Alamo Pintado Creek Bridge Replacement:

The Alamo Pintado Creek Bridge Replacement is a critical infrastructure project scheduled to start in early 2029 and continue for over two years. Located on Highway 246 between the Alamo Pintado Rd intersection and Highway 246 (Mission Drive), this project aims to address significant structural deficiencies in the existing bridge. With critical scouring and bridge deck cracking posing risks of failure, the replacement is essential for maintaining safety and traffic flow.

The project will also upgrade curb ramps and integrate complete streets features, including a new Class I bikeway that extends from the bridge to the Alamo Pintado Rd intersection and along Highway 246. This development, funded by the State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) with an estimated construction capital of $18.46 million, is expected to enhance accessibility and safety.

Wildwood Apartment Development:

In parallel, the City of Solvang is considering the approval of the Wildwood Apartment project, a proposed 105,400 square foot development at the intersection of Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Drive. This massive project, featuring 100 units, is set to be as tall as the Hollywood sign and twice as long. Its scale and location, directly across from Nielsen Shopping Center and The Mercantile, have sparked considerable debate.

Residents fear that this development, which does not align with current zoning or the general plan, will lead to significant disruptions. The potential impacts include severe increases in traffic congestion, overwhelming local emergency services, and strain on water and waste management systems. Given Solvang’s population of just under 6,000, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau (2019), such a large-scale project threatens to alter the town’s character and charm, which attracts tourists from around the world.

The Perfect Storm:

The overlap of these two significant projects could exacerbate the challenges faced by Solvang. The construction of the Alamo Pintado Creek Bridge will undoubtedly cause traffic delays and road closures, complicating the already strained infrastructure. The Wildwood Apartments, if approved, would further intensify congestion, particularly in an area that will already be under construction.

Moreover, the combined impact of increased noise pollution and disruption from these projects could strain local emergency services, making it harder for first responders to navigate through congested areas. This scenario raises serious concerns about response times and the overall safety of the community.

A Call to Action:

As these projects loom on the horizon, Solvang residents are urging city officials to carefully consider the cumulative impact on their community. There is a growing call to prioritize the preservation of Solvang’s unique character and address the potential negative effects of unchecked development.

Community members are encouraged to voice their concerns and participate in discussions about these projects. By signing petitions and attending city meetings, residents can help ensure that future developments align with the needs and values of their town.

The coming years will be pivotal for Solvang as it navigates these significant changes. It is crucial for residents and officials alike to work together to balance progress with the preservation of the town’s cherished character.

Sign the Petition To Stop the Wildwood Alamo Pintado Project

Join the Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council on Facebook to Follow this and other Critical Issues

City of Solvang Alamo Pintado Apartment Page

Solvang City Council Meeting 08-12-2024

City Documents

August 13, 2024 admin 0

The Builder’s Remedy: A Threat to Solvang

The Builder’s Remedy: A Threat to Small Towns

The “Builder’s Remedy” is a California law designed to address the housing crisis by pushing for more affordable housing. However, in small towns like Solvang, this provision can lead to problematic outcomes. Currently, Solvang faces a significant challenge with a proposed massive apartment complex under this law. Here’s why this project is a bad idea for our community:

A Monumental Project

Imagine a colossal 105,400 square-foot apartment complex towering over our peaceful family neighborhoods. With 190 bedrooms across 100 units, this building is set to dominate the area. The usual road setbacks have been halved, placing this giant complex even closer to our homes.

Traffic Nightmares

The traffic situation at the Alamo Pintado Road/Hwy. 246 intersection and the Old Mission Drive intersection is already problematic. Adding this development will exacerbate gridlock, making access to Nielsen’s and Mercantile Shopping Centers even more difficult.

Emergency Services at Risk

Increased traffic congestion could lead to longer emergency response times, potentially impeding access to our local hospital. This could have serious implications for the safety and well-being of our residents.

Parking Problems

The complex will offer insufficient parking for its residents, causing overflow onto public streets. This will impact local residents and create additional parking challenges in an already tight area.

Historical Impact

The project threatens to affect the Historic Mission Santa Ines aqueduct, an important cultural and historical landmark that once supplied water to the Mission.

Limited Affordable Housing

Despite the push for affordable housing, this project will only provide 20 low-income units out of 100. This is a small fraction of what’s needed to address our community’s housing issues effectively.

Environmental Concerns

The addition of so many impermeable surfaces will increase the risk of erosion and flooding, affecting our local environment and infrastructure.

Incompatible Design

The architectural style of the proposed complex is cookie-cutter and mall-like, clashing with the unique charm and character of Solvang. This development does not fit the aesthetic of our critical gateway site.

What Can We Do?

We need to stop this project before it’s too late. Over 46,000 people have viewed our Change.org petition, showing widespread concern. Now, it’s crucial to let the City Council know that we oppose this out-of-town developer’s project. Your voice matters!

Take Action:
– Sign the petition.
– Attend city council meetings.
– Spread the word to friends and neighbors.

Let’s protect Solvang’s character and ensure that any development aligns with our community’s needs and values.

Together, we can make a difference!

Click Here to Help

City – Updates

Alamo Pintado Apartments (Wildwood)

August 12, 2024 admin 0

Make it a “Venti”

Twelve months ago, while standing in this very Starbucks in the picturesque town of Buellton, California, I received a call that would forever alter the trajectory of my life. I learned I had cancer. It’s the kind of news that shakes you to your core. Yet here I am, one year later, after enduring countless scans, shots, blood tests, pills, grueling chemo sessions, and thirty rounds of radiation. I lost my hair, my taste, seventy pounds of muscle, and my natural good looks. I couldn’t work for three solid months. But today, I sit here, healthier and more joyful than ever, savoring a cup of my favorite coffee and reflecting on the incredible positive changes in my life and the wonderful new people I’ve met.

Someone famously said, “Life is like a box of chocolates.” I couldn’t agree more. But let me add this: Life is like a big box of chocolates left in your car too long, melting into one giant, rich, tastier blob. It’s still chocolate, just transformed—different, but sweeter and more significant than it ever was.

We don’t know what tomorrow or even today will bring, but if we embrace our future with the belief that it will be better, bigger, and brighter, regardless of the challenges we face, we might cherish and appreciate our lives even more. To those of you going through the toughest moments right now, I feel your pain and share your grief. I don’t know what the divine plan is or why we face such battles, like my own with cancer, but I hope you find comfort in knowing that all things do work together for a greater good.

I hope to report back in six months with the same positive test results I received last week. Until then, keep living, laughing, and believing. Life is indeed like a box of chocolates. Make it a Venti!

Brian Carrillo

MORE INSIGHTS AND POWER THOUGHTS BY BRIAN

August 5, 2024 admin 0

THE ART OF CONSTRUCTIVE DISCOURSE

Many years ago, during the formative years of the internet, I was a staunch advocate of its potential as a powerful medium for the everyday individual.

This was a time before the advent of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and various chat forums.

I was of the belief that the internet, with its accessible publishing tools, could empower the common person to disseminate effective and uplifting messages, independent of established publishing entities or alternative media platforms.

Regrettably, the evolution of this digital revolution did not align with my initial expectations. Today, we are inundated with an excess of armchair philosophers and commentators.

While I still champion everyone’s right to express their opinions, I am disheartened by the increasing prevalence of personal attacks and verbal abuses exchanged under the banners of religion, politics, fashion, science, or any other subject matter.

What is particularly alarming is the evident lack of empathy or self-restraint, as displayed through the rampant trend of name-calling and personal assaults.

Attributing this to any particular perspective or opinion that one disagrees with, the unfortunate truth remains: the situation will likely worsen before any signs of improvement.

So, how should one engage in discourse with individuals resorting to personal attacks and name-calling when faced with disagreement?

Initially, it is crucial to recognize that resorting to name-calling or diverting from the core of the discussion is often the tactic of an uninformed individual. Lacking any substantial arguments, they reduce the conversation to attacking the individual rather than addressing the issue.

The term “ad hominem”, a Latin phrase meaning “to the person”, refers to this fallacious strategy. It involves avoiding the substantive discussion at hand by attacking the character, motive, or other attributes of the individual making the argument rather than confronting the argument itself. Originally, this term referred to an argument designed to appeal more to the individual being addressed rather than impartial reason.

This faulty line of reasoning, categorized as an informal fallacy or more precisely as a genetic fallacy, distracts from the real issues at hand.

In essence, initiating a debate by hurling insults like ‘hater’, ‘loser’, ‘Dem’, ‘Nazi’, or any other derogatory term, is undoubtedly the quickest way to lose credibility in a discussion. Even if you’re correct in your stance, resorting to personal affronts not only disqualifies you from the debate but also highlights your own intellectual shortcomings and character flaws.

Instead, present your counterpoints logically, explaining why you disagree with the point or argument at hand. Then, proceed to articulate why you hold a different belief. This approach fosters constructive discourse and demonstrates respect for differing viewpoints.

Author: Brian Carrillo

Based in Los Angeles, CA, Brian embodies a seasoned business development savant and a skilled digital writer and publisher. With an entrepreneurial journey spanning forty years in sales and business growth, his proficiency and insights are indeed remarkable.

If you’re keen on exploring how social media could amplify and enhance your online visibility and product or service reach, we’re just a phone call or email away. We’re eager to help you discover new pathways to transcend your present accomplishments.

April 8, 2023 admin 0

Coming Out About Coming Up

For nearly two decades, I’ve been at the forefront of the digital revolution, crafting and launching online platforms. In the early days of the internet, we were pioneers, brimming with anticipation, navigating unchartered waters without a compass. Few of us foresaw how deeply it would permeate every aspect of our existence.

The phrase “World Wide Web” still echoes from my memory. It came to life in the era of 286 computers, during the embryonic stage of web-browsers. This was akin to unveiling a “New World” to me, a term that later birthed my first website: New World Builders. This name was born from my conviction that we stood at the threshold of a virtually unknown world. The subtitle I used? The New World Wide Web.

So impassioned was I by the potential of the internet that I liquidated my assets, sometimes generously donating them, and plunged into the realm of creativity to chase my dream: creating a web platform that encourages users to transcend their horizons and explore this new world. My secondary platform, “Dreamland,” reflected my creative inclinations, housing an array of short stories, introspective prose, and romantic poetry, all reflecting my deepest musings.

Collectively, I’ve created a mosaic of websites and generated thousands of pages of content—original or repurposed—spanning topics from building materials and indoor air quality to literature, art, fashion, home products, dating, high-speed trains, and beyond.

If someone asked “Why?” I’d answer: because the internet has democratized self-expression, creation, discovery, and self-investment, allowing anyone to reach a global audience. Never before has it been so easy to share music, poetry, stories, or any form of art, evident in the millions of blogs and websites currently on the internet. Nowadays, anyone can author a book, compose a song, create a music video, and share it with the world, often for free.

Coming Up Magazine, another project of mine, is an evolution of my earlier works. The term “Coming Up” used to denote coming across a desired object, sometimes obtained by unsavory means. Today, “Coming Up” means “on the rise” or “up next.” It is frequently used in media to announce what’s forthcoming.

This music and entertainment-focused platform stemmed from a conversation with my son about essential life and business practices. I advised him to be more than a writer, photographer, or artist—to become a publisher. Why wait for someone else to promote your work when you can do it yourself?

Another motivation was to help my daughter promote her music as an independent singer and band member. Today, Coming Up Magazine showcases up-and-coming bands and musicians, people, places, and things on the brink of success. It’s also a continuation of my original writings, “Coming Up – A Street Wise Guide Through Life, Learning, and Love”.

For me, “Coming Up” symbolizes the necessary transformation we all must undergo to better ourselves and reach our potential, both individually and globally, for the survival of our species and our planet.

I embarked on this creative journey in my college days, typing away on an old Brother digital typewriter. The process keeps my mind sharp and creative while challenging my perspectives. Editing and publishing reviews and stories for Coming Up Magazine exposes me to music and art I wouldn’t usually encounter, keeping me receptive to younger generations.

I invite you to join me on this journey of growth and “Coming Up”.

March 20, 2023 admin 0

Be Cool

Welcome to my webpage!

Here, I want to make something abundantly clear: I will never judge or criticize you based on your beliefs or affiliations. Whether you identify as an atheist or believe in God, whether you align with the Democrats or Republicans, or whether you identify as Muslim, hippie, witch, black, white, gay, or straight – I am here to support you.

In a world where people often point fingers and hurl hurtful words, I stand firmly by your side, ready to defend you against any form of discrimination or derogatory remarks. I believe in the power of respect and understanding, even when we may disagree on certain topics. We don’t have to see eye to eye on everything to earn my respect, but grace and politeness go a long way.

However, let’s be clear: there is no place here for rude or nasty behavior. I have no tolerance for assholes or people who bring negativity into the space we’re creating. If you can’t be a gentleman or a lady, then it’s best if you go your own way. It’s time for all of us to strive for better, to take responsibility for our actions and words.

We all have one precious life, and it’s essential to live it well and help others along the way. Hard work and contributing to society are vital, and relying solely on the government to take care of us is not the solution. It’s time for each of us to step up and make a positive impact.

So, join me on this journey of respect, understanding, and personal growth. Let’s strive for a world where differences are celebrated, where kindness prevails, and where we can all contribute to making a better future. Together, we can create something truly remarkable.

#comingup

March 23, 2017 admin 0

Paramore As Nirvana’s Successor for Flagship Band of Disaffected Youth in the Modern World

Nobody may have suspected it, but the young (and not immensely sizable) lead singer and songstress, Hayley Williams, of “Paramore”, currently fills some very big shoes.

The originally Tennessee-based, now LA-based, band has an unparalleled range in repertoire, from elementary ballads, to immense rock-orchestral
compositions spanning the spectrum of all possible intricacy and genius – a band Kurt Cobain would have regarded as possessing that rarest but most sought-after of traits: raw girl power.

Though there is only one feminine element of which to speak, literally, in the group, the raw masculinity of the chord progressions are not encountered by Williams’s breadth and depth of vocal range, from lilting lullaby-esque dreaminess to hardcore, visceral, even Visigoth battle cries, harking back to Cobain’s signature roar which expressed the inexpressible sadness and repression of a youth culture barraged by the pseudo intellects and bureaucratic limitations of the Baby Boomer generation. Though both Cobain and Williams missed out on speaking for or against any war efforts by a hair’s breadth of timing, their expression of eternal rebelliousness in the face of unjust restraints disguised as stream-of-consciousness poetic renditions remains unmistakable in the wake of such artists as Lennon and Dylan and their decoding reinterpretations for the masses.

Hayley Williams, of “Paramore”

Take the songs “Ignorance” and “Monster”. There are few pop songs in the modern catalogue which seem to eerily echo sentiments of fury, anguish, and the irrevocable as a battle cry in the face of corporate marketing polish as Cobain’s genius did in deconstructing the pop rock album with the most slithery of punk-anthemic compositions – on a record which sounded like the Beatles had reinvented themselves with a taste for distortion pedals and tympanic reverberation (“Lithium” could well be a latter-day McCartney song, if he were so inclined towards such metallic tastes).

People may quickly class Paramore away as a subcultural and/or “emo” penchant, but they remain ignorant of the relative lack of comparable talent in the deluge that is modern college rock radio. Few songs can bring one to tears, but take a listen to “All I Wanted”, “Renegade”, or “(One of Those) Crazy Girls” to sense a Rachmaninoff counterpoint emotionally-influencing counterpart to Cobain’s religiosity of reverence for today’s shattered youth.

Not merely that, but it is highly recommended that you add to your CD or vinyl collection their latest self-titled epic, which I give five out of five stars (not merely for its motif of lilting reminiscence for Cobain’s personal fave composition, the watery “Drain You” if you want to hear one of the most mind-blowing anthemic conquests of the radio waves ever launched – and find yourself a new (if not already well-versed) Paramore fan; particularly for the starry ballad “Hate to See Your Heart Break”, among others, which show their evolution from film soundtracks to the soundtrack of our very lives – something that rarely to never happens, already signifying them as a gem among the vast and barren sands.

If you would ever suggest that someone could hold a candle to Lennon, Cobain, or Dylan in today’s age, be prepared to be honest with yourself and those to whom you are eternally obliged – your fellow man (and fan) – and shout that Williams lights an eternal torch in remembrance and steady continuation of the impassioned outcry that was the war song of those countless harnessing the raw untapped power of the genius within us all for recognizing the genius in others; after all, as the great Schopenhauer himself – an ardent music aficionado – once said: “Intellect is invisible to the man who has none.”

I’m glad we can see clearly now – that the rain is gone – here in sunny California.

Paramore on Facebook

Music

About the Author: Nolan Aljaddou is an alumnus of the University of Nebraska Omaha, and has authored a book and several papers on physics.  He started playing guitar at the age of 12 and writes extensively on Psychology, Mathematics, Physics, Philosophy and of course, Music.

October 13, 2016 admin 0

Is this Political Ad from Trump too Dangerous for Prime Time?

Personally, I don’t feel it’s too dangerous, at least no more than any other commercial being aired this campaign cycle. I do think this election is dangerous in general, however. There is so much hostility from both sides that it makes following it tiresome and frustrating, and dangerous in the sense that you can’t walk outside wearing a pro-Hillary shirt or a pro-Trump “Make America Great Again” cap without fear of being punched.

The fighting among Facebook “friends” on Social Media and family members seems downright hostile and brutal. Hell, I have to admit, I am even guarded in my post for fear of being called a bigot or hater. What kind of People have we become? I don’t think I am bigot and I have always tried to be fair and balanced in my opinions.

What will be tomorrow’s Politics be like? How can we go back to the way things use to be? Is this the new Politic?

I hope that this is not a sign of things will be be forever. The riots, the protests, the violence the mudslinging and nasty way the media is treating both Democrats and Republicans.

In any event, I have to say I learned a lot this election. I have learned that anyone is capable of being nasty and hating and thinking their view is the only correct view. I also learned that the status quo does not like change.

Enough said – what do you think of this ad?

Regardless of your opinion or party, a Democracy requires the voices and thoughts of all of us.

Now Push Play

October 11, 2016 admin 0

Men, We Need to Talk

Globally, the rate of suicide is alarmingly high, particularly in men. Too many men are ‘toughing it out’, keeping their feelings to themselves and struggling in silence.

When things get tough, we need to talk. Reach out, take action, and look after ourselves and each other.

Today, September 10th, is World Suicide Prevention Day, and we believe it’s important to take a look at videos like these and spread love and awareness when it comes to the heavily stigmatized topic of suicide.

Many who have trichotillomania and dermatillomania don’t see a way out of the disorder. We might see ourselves us broken, unlovable, scarred, defective or any other negative thought that might stew around in our heads, and you know what? It gets to us. It gets to us and sometimes when we’re faced with these disorders that so many professionals don’t know about and no one seems to be able to help us with, we get lost, and our thoughts turn even darker. If you’re among those who might be thinking that suicide is the only escape from this, or any of your problems, it’s not. There is help and there is hope. Reach out to suicide hotlines, online support groups, friends, family, anyone that you trust for love and support, and let them know that you’re struggling. Know that you are not alone, and that you can get better, even if it doesn’t seem like it right now. You can.

o speak with someone immediately, contact National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) or Lifeline Crisis Chat.

If life is in danger, call 911 or go directly to emergency services.

JOSHUA LUKE SMITH RELEASES POWERFUL TRACK AND VIDEO FOR WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY TO HELP RAISE AWARENESS OF SAMARITANS

September 10, 2016 admin 0

THE ESSENTIAL KEY TO SUCCESS

The greatest lesson I’ve learned over the years is that the essential key to success is Keeping Your Word.

THE ESSENTIAL KEY TO SUCCESS

The greatest lesson I’ve learned over the years is that the essential key to success is Keeping Your Word.

At the heart of successful entrepreneurship or artistic pursuit, three values reign supreme: Integrity, Trust, and Respect. How does one cultivate these pillars of success? It begins with honoring your word.

Indeed, it’s as straightforward as it sounds. Be consistent and dependable, even when the tasks seem trivial. They could hold immense importance to others and significantly influence your relationship or project’s trajectory. So, if you’ve promised to email or call someone ‘before Thursday,’ ensure it is done by then. This may sound stern, but maintaining reliability and punctuality forms the foundation of trust—your paramount focus.

So, what often disrupts our good intentions to keep our word? Overcommitment is a likely culprit. If, like me, you’re quick to jump on new ideas and projects, there may come a time when you realize you’ve overextended yourself. Suddenly, your commitment to a project is untenable due to time constraints and competing priorities. This predicament is common—trust me, I’ve been there. That’s why it’s wise to deliberate before agreeing, learn to prioritize, and choose what will serve you and your career best. It’s about respect—both for yourself and your collaborators.

Navigating the music industry, or any competitive field, is tough, but it’s crucial to remember that you can adhere to your ethical standards and still attain your objectives. Embrace the fact that integrity and honesty will always propel you further in life than shortcuts or deceit. This is the path to true and lasting success.

More from the author

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July 28, 2016 admin 0

Previous Submittals

October 5, 2023 Initial Submittal