City of Solvang Newsletter, Sept. 9, 2025 | | From the City Manager's Desk | |
Solvang Friends and Neighbors,
Welcome to the first edition of Hej Solvang, your resident-focused newsletter. We’re closing out a busy summer centered on essentials: safe streets, reliable water, and clear communication. Construction on the Nyborg Estates Water Main Replacement began July 21, 2025 and runs through February 25, 2026—an important investment in system reliability. Council’s comprehensive zoning code update, effective January 8, 2025, aligns our rules with the Solvang 2045 General Plan, giving applicants clearer standards and the City stronger tools to protect community character. We’re also coordinating routine roadway repairs and sidewalk work through our Capital Improvement Plan, alongside a mid-summer construction window on Sawleaf Lane to Viking Way to install new fiber-optic lines.
A bit about me: I’m a native San Franciscan and a lifelong Bay Area sports fan—though I promise to play nice with our SoCal faithful. I bring 30+ years of management experience, including over two decades in public service spanning public works, policy, economic development, emergency management, and strategic planning. I completed my BS in Business Management and MPA while working full-time and raising a family, and I’ve led teams of 100+ with responsibility for budgets, labor negotiations, audits, fleet and safety programs, and customer service. In local government, I’ve presented regularly to councils, boards, commissions, and community groups, and overseen complex capital and operational programs.
My wife, Debbie, and I moved to Nyborg Estates in July 2023 and recently celebrated our second anniversary. Between us we have a wonderful, blended family—my kids, Meghan (Tampa) and Benjamin (a Navy veteran near D.C.), and Debbie’s four adult children—and five energetic grandchildren. Outside the office, I enjoy golf, swimming (when there’s a pool), and live music; I’ve been to nearly 1,000 concerts and have Southern Culture on the Skids on the calendar this November and Blake Shelton in Vegas soon thereafter.
Thank you for reading and for all you do to keep Solvang thriving. Please share this newsletter with a few neighbors and sign up for City alerts so you don’t miss updates. My door is always open.
Yours in public service,
Randy Murphy, City Manager
| | Local Projects: A Progress Report | |
Ved du, hvad de bygger der?
(What are they building there?)
You have seen it on social media such as Nextdoor or Facebook with the question “What are they building there?” Did you know the City of Solvang has a dedicated website for that?
The “Major Projects” section highlights key developments currently navigating various phases of the entitlement and construction process. You'll find details about several significant projects that are on the development horizon — from private developer proposals to City-led initiatives.
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Nyborg Estates Water Main Replacement Update
We're delighted to report that the City of Solvang’s $2.4 million water main replacement project in Nyborg Estates is moving forward smoothly and on schedule. Construction began July 21, 2025, with completion anticipated by February 25, 2026. Crews have already completed a significant portion of the work with minimal disruption to residents. This investment strengthens our community’s water system, reduces costly emergency repairs, and ensures reliable, high-quality service. The City remains committed to transparency and fiscal responsibility, welcoming community feedback throughout the project! Let us know what you think by emailing Utilities Director Jose Acosta at jacosta@cityofsolvang.com.
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Check out changes to Santa Ynez Valley Transit
Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT) is now faster, simpler, and more connected! In May, we introduced updated routes with new permanent stops at Chumash Casino and the Tribal Health Clinic, plus a brand-new stop at the Buellton Library. With improved routing and convenient options, getting where you need to go has never been easier. Check out the new schedules and maps at www.syvt.com or call (805) 688-5452 to learn more about skipping the stress of traffic and parking—let SYVT do the driving!
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Our Public Works Department and Utilities Department has a plan!
Planning for major projects and programs takes time and careful consideration. Our recently published Capital Improvement Program details funding and priorities for road repairs, sidewalk infill/repair, and other citywide maintenance needs for the next 10 years. Highlights include:
- Safer Streets & Sidewalks
- Pickleball & Parks Upgrades
- Reservoir & Water Reliability
- Mission Drive Traffic Fixes
Take a look at the program designed to comply with Federal and State funding requirements and to shape a safer, stronger and more efficient Solvang! For complete details, visit cityofsolvang.com.
| | Updates: Policies and Ordinances | | What's New in Parks & Rec? | |
Help us create a new
Parks & Rec Master Plan
The City of Solvang is creating a NEW Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and we want to include your voice! This important document will guide how we improve parks, trails, recreational programs, and open spaces for years to come.
Whether you're a regular park goer, a parent, a business owner, or someone who simply loves this community — your feedback matters.
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SURVEY SAYS!
We want to hear from you! This quick survey helps us shape future improvements to City of Solvang parks.
Click Here
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Filling out the Parks & Rec Survey is Your Chance to:
✔️ Tell us what parks and recreation amenities you use most
✔️ Share what you think is missing
✔️ Help us plan for future generations
✔️ Support a healthy, inclusive, and fun Solvang for all
Your input will directly influence how Solvang grows, plays, and connects in the years to come. Thank you for being part of the process!
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Save the date!
Don’t miss the thrill of our most popular Halloween event! This year’s Haunted House and Streetfair take place on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 24 - 25, from 6 - 9:30 p.m. If you’re looking for the kid friendliest time for this spooky event, visit us when the fun begins from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Adults (13 and over) are $15, and kids are $10. We’re looking for volunteers! Find details here.
And something new!
This fall, the City is bringing Spirits of Solvang: Harvest, Haunts & Happenings. Designed for all to enjoy right here at home, this festive October series celebrates the season with family-friendly activities, spooky fun, and a dash of autumn flavor. From harvest traditions to Halloween happenings, it’s a chance for all of us to come together and make new memories in our hometown. See the full lineup of great activities here.
Check out our full lineup of Parks & Rec fall activities!
Whether you're looking for tai chi, Turkey BINGO or a family cooking class, there's something for you in our City of Solvang Parks & Rec Guide here!
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Et par ting mere
(A few more things)
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WaterWise Conservation Tip of the Month: Car Wash Day?
On car wash day, use a commercial car wash that recycles water to save on water use. If washing your car at home, use a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle and ensure wastewater drains to a landscaped area or unpaved surface. Better yet, wash your car on a grassy area to water your lawn at the same time!
| | Earthquake Retrofit Grants Now Available | |
Through Oct. 1, homeowners can apply for up to $3,000 in seismic retrofit grants through the Earthquake Brace and Bolt (EBB) program. This program is now open to all zip codes in Santa Barbara County and has expanded to non-owner occupied rental properties.
EBB gives landlords and other property owners the opportunity to apply for seismic retrofit grants to strengthen wood-framed homes built before 1980 with raised foundations against earthquake damage. Qualified homeowners can apply for grants to help cover the cost of bolting houses to their foundations and bracing crawl space walls.
These seismic retrofit upgrades help to reduce earthquake damage and provide more resilient housing in high-risk areas. Santa Barbara County homeowners can apply HERE.
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We often hear concerns about trash and litter along Highway 246.
While the City of Solvang does not maintain this Caltrans right-of-way, residents can request clean-up directly through the California Department of Transportation’s Customer Service Request (CSR) system.
If you notice litter, vegetation, or maintenance needs along SR-246, please submit a CSR at csr.dot.ca.gov or click the button below.
Volunteer groups like the SYV Clean Team also work hard to keep our community clean, but your participation in reporting issues ensures Caltrans can respond more quickly. Together, we can help keep our gateways to Solvang welcoming and safe.
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