Planning Commission approves permanent MRI addition at 2050 Vibborg Road

The Solvang Planning Commission on April 6 unanimously approved a conditional use permit amendment and development permit for a 2,160‑square‑foot MRI facility addition at 2050 Vibborg Road, replacing a mobile MRI trailer currently on the hospital campus.

Planning staff presented the application (PA25‑019), saying the proposal relocates MRI services from a trailer to a permanent building within the existing hospital campus, preserves an on‑site mature oak tree, uses dark‑sky‑compliant exterior lighting and drought‑tolerant landscaping, and does not change building height or reduce existing parking. Staff recommended approval and concluded the project qualifies for a Class 1 SQA exemption for an addition to an existing facility.

Heidi Jones, project consultant, described the project as a practical operational improvement, saying it “provides a great community benefit by improving operations and conditions at the hospital along with the minor site improvements.” Architect Rosa Alvarado described the floor plan and finishes—stating the addition contains the magnet room, control room and ancillary equipment rooms and uses stucco and earthtone colors to maintain campus compatibility.

Commissioners voiced broad support. One commissioner noted the preservation of the oak tree and the DRC’s landscaping recommendations; another said they had used the trailer and welcomed the permanent upgrade. The commission moved, seconded and voted 4‑0 to approve the conditional use permit amendment and the development permit for the MRI addition.

What happens next: with Planning Commission approval, the applicant will proceed with construction permitting and the removal of the existing mobile MRI trailer when the permanent facility is ready. Staff and the applicant said site protections will remain in place during construction to preserve the mature oak tree.