| | | City of Solana Beach WEEKLY UPDATE May 16, 2025 | | SANDAG releases updated Notice of Preparation for Rail Realignment Project | | | SANDAG released the Updated Notice of Preparation (NOP) for the San Diego LOSSAN Rail Realignment project, starting a 45-day scoping period to collect feedback that will end on Monday, June 30th. This regionally-important project is to explore long-term solutions to ensure the rail corridor remains safe, reliable, and resilient, focusing on the segment of rail within the jurisdiction of Del Mar.
As many of you may recall, in June of last year SANDAG released a NOP that included an Alternative – Alternative A – that started in Solana Beach, tunneled under the Fairgrounds and Lagoon, to align with Interstate 5, and come out near the north end of Sorrento Valley. In response to comments received on the NOP – including a large number from our City residents and businesses - SANDAG launched a Value Analysis Study to enhance the proposed alignment alternatives and identify new options for consideration. On February 28, 2025, the SANDAG Board of Directors directed staff to move forward with the proposed project goals, objectives, and alternative alignments, including a no build alternative. While the project alternatives do not include the previously-considered Alternative A and so do directly impact Solana Beach properties, it is important for our City, residents and businesses to stay engaged, as construction will likely still impact commutes and surrounding roadways.
SANDAG will be hosting a Public Scoping Meeting on Thursday, May 29th from 6:00-7:30 PM at the Sound at the Del Mar Fairgrounds to discuss the proposed alignments (or rail routes) and to collect public feedback. Based on public feedback and the direction of the Board, refinements and revisions to alternative concepts will continue to be made throughout the environmental process. Attendees will have the option to provide comments verbally, individually with a court reporter, through the online portal, or by written comment card. Everyone is encouraged to stay involved and submit a public comments by one of the following ways:
The City will continue to share information through these Community newsletters and at Council meetings as information is available. | | New Art Brings Life to the Solana Beach Post Office | | | Last month, the Solana Beach Post Office got a colorful new makeover! The community came together on April 26th to celebrate with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil nine hand-painted murals by long-time local artist Kevin Anderson. Kevin was joined by members of Solana Beach Civic & Historical Society, Mayor Lesa Heebner, City Councilmembers, and representatives from State Senator Catherine Blakespear’s office to officially welcome residents into the newly transformed space. What was once just a place to drop off mail is now a vibrant gallery of iconic Solana Beach scenes, full of color, meaning, and local pride.
Kevin, a Solana Beach native, was commissioned by the Civic & Historical Society for this special project and spent six months creating the murals. As he painted, neighbors, friends, and curious passersby stopped to chat, reminisce, and admire his work. “It’s one of the best times I’ve ever had painting,” he shared. From surf breaks to scenic views, each mural sparks conversation and nostalgia. Now, every trip to the post office comes with a reason to pause, smile, and feel grateful to call Solana Beach home. | | | Community Advisory: La Jolla Half Marathon Road Closure | | | | The La Jolla Half Marathon will be taking place on Saturday, May 17th. Please be advised that in order to accommodate this event, Via de la Valle from Jimmy Durante to Highway 101 will be closed Saturday morning starting at 6:15 AM. In past years, Via de la Valle has re-opened to traffic by around 7:30 AM. | | | "Aging in Place Your Way" Community Workshop Tuesday, May 20th, 5:30 PM | | | | Join Solana Beach Community Connections and the Friends of the Library for this month’s Lecture Series, Aging in Place Your Way, on Tuesday, May 20th at 5:30 PM at the Solana Beach Library. Learn how to stay safe and independent in your own home with presentations from three local organizations: Home Instead–North County, YANA (You Are Not Alone), and PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly). Each will share valuable resources and services that support aging in place. Transportation is available for seniors in need of a ride. This event is free to the public. | | | Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 26th, 11:00 AM | | | | The City of Solana Beach and Solana Beach Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5431 cordially invite you to our annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 26th from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Join us at the La Colonia Park Veterans Honor Courtyard, located at 715 Valley Avenue, for this special community event as we pay tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. | | | CarFit Driving Safety Program Friday, May 30th, 9:00-11:00 AM | | | | Are you over 55 years old and starting to feel less confident behind the wheel? Then register for the free CarFit Driving Safety Program on Friday, May 30th from 9:00-11:00 AM at the Solana Beach Presbyterian Church. In just 15 minutes, a CarFit certified technician will walk you through a 12-point checklist designed to help senior drivers feel safer and more comfortable in their vehicles. Hosted by the Scripps Health Trauma Injury Prevention Team, this interactive and educational program aims to help senior drivers remain mobile by improving seat position, visibility, and confidence. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today! | | | Life Comes in Waves Artist Reception Saturday, May 31st, 4:00 PM | | | | Join us for a special artist reception celebrating the newest City Hall Gallery exhibit, Life Comes in Waves by Andrew Wright, on Saturday, May 31st, from 4:00–6:00 PM. Meet the artist, enjoy live music, grab a taco, and explore over 40 original works showcasing iconic surf spots from around the world. A long-time North County surfer, Andrew began painting during his battle with leukemia as a way to stay connected to the ocean. His self-taught journey has led to a stunning collection that captures the beauty of surf breaks with such vivid detail, you’ll feel transported to the shoreline. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with the artist and experience an afternoon of incredible art. | | | Fiesta Del Sol Saturday, May 31st & Sunday, June 1st | | | | Fiesta del Sol returns on Saturday, May 31st and Sunday, June 1st! The Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce and Belly Up have been hosting this FREE 2-day Arts & Music Festival for 44-years as a kick off to Summer in Solana Beach! As the largest street fair in Solana Beach, Fiesta del Sol has something for everyone. The Belly Up has lined up a great list of musicians to perform over the two day event. Be sure to ride your bike down to take advantage of the free bike parking located in the public parking lot on the north side of Plaza, west of Highway 101. Come find us at the City Booth for fun prizes. Also, not to be missed is the Solana Beach Firefighter Pancake Breakfast on Sunday from 7:00-10:00 AM. | | | 100th Anniversary of the Solana Beach Library Saturday, June 10th, 2:30 PM | | | | Join us in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Solana Beach Library on Tuesday, June 10th from 2:30-5:00 PM. Since opening its doors in June 1925, the Library has supported our community through a wide range of programs and events that foster learning, creativity, and connection. To honor this special milestone, the Friends of the Solana Beach Library invites the community to a fun-filled celebration featuring live music, crafts stations, food, and of course books! Additional events will be held throughout the year highlighting the Library’s rich history and the authors who bring its shelves to life. Come celebrate and support your local library! | | | The next regular City Council meeting is Wednesday, May 21st at 6:00 PM, in the City Hall Council Chambers, located at 635 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach. All meetings are also subject to cancellation. Please refer to the City's Public Meetings page for updates, meeting schedules, directions on submitting a public comment, or for more information.
May 21, 2025 Agenda:
- A.3. Solana Beach Lighting District for Fiscal Year 2025/26.
- A.4. Solana Beach Coastal Rail Trail Maintenance District Fiscal Year 2025/26.
- A.5. List of Projects for Fiscal Year 2025/26 to Receive Road Maintenance Rehabilitation Account Funding as Required by Senate Bill (SB) 1.
- A.6. Quarterly Investment Report.
- A.7. Community Development Professional Service Agreements.
- A.8. Sewer and Storm Drain Maintenance Services.
- A.9. 2024 State Homeland Security Program Grant Funds for Firefighting Equipment.
- B.1. Public Hearing: 615 N. Granados Avenue, Applicant: DMIG 615 Granados LLC.
- B.2. Public Hearing: 671 East Solana Circle, Applicant: Beals, Nicholls.
- C.1. Adopt (2nd Reading) of Ordinance 538 relating to the Annual Sewer Service Charge per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) for Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2030.
- C.2. Draft Work Plan Fiscal Year 2025/26.
How to Submit Public Comments
Written Comments: To provide written input on an agenda item, email the City Clerk at clerkoffice@cosb.org. - Use the meeting date in the subject line and include the agenda item number.
- Written comments must be submitted at least two hours before the meeting.
- Please note written comments will not be read aloud during the meeting but will be shared with the Council and added to the public record.
Verbal Comments: To speak during the meeting, submit a speaker slip to the City Clerk before the meeting starts or before the relevant agenda item is announced. - Each speaker is allotted 3 minutes per topic.
- Individuals can receive up to 6 minutes if time is donated by another attendee, or up to 10 minutes for group discussions. For public hearings, time donated by two attendees allows up to 15 minutes for a speaker.
For additional details, visit the City’s website or contact the City Clerk at clerkoffice@cosb.org.
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