City officials address access concerns in Longpokes neighborhoods and Badger Meadows project

During the recent Planning Commission meeting on July 12, 2025, the City Council of Lompoc addressed critical concerns regarding neighborhood access and safety, particularly in relation to fire emergencies. The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by several neighborhoods that currently have only one access point, raising alarms for emergency services.

One of the primary concerns was the Hawthorne neighborhood, which features a loop system but lacks a secondary access route. Similarly, the Crown Point neighborhood and another nearby area, both situated on the hillside, are also limited to a single access point via Olive Avenue. This situation poses significant risks, especially in emergencies when quick evacuation routes are essential.

The meeting also touched on the mobile home park in the vicinity, which has only one main access point. Although there is a gate at the RV park that could potentially serve as an emergency exit, it is not regularly accessible to residents, further complicating evacuation plans.

In response to these concerns, the city is working closely with the county on the Badger Meadows project, which is currently outside Lompoc's city limits but is undergoing a builder's remedy process. Initially, this project had only one access point, but it has since been updated to include a second access off Olive Avenue. The city has insisted that a third access point be established onto Ocean Avenue to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly during peak school hours.

City officials acknowledged that while there had been some public review of the Badger Meadows project, it had not been widely communicated to residents due to staff focus on other pressing matters, such as the housing element. However, they assured the community that the project had undergone multiple reviews with Cal Fire to ensure compliance with state safety regulations.

The discussions from this meeting underscore the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and ensuring that neighborhoods are adequately equipped for emergencies. As Lompoc continues to grow, the focus on improving access and safety measures will be crucial for the well-being of its residents.