San Luis Obispo seeks input on outside and community space program

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. - The new “Open SLO” program was approved by the City Council to support the economic recovery of local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It temporarily uses sidewalks, parking spaces and streets for community spaces to promote physical distancing while supporting economic recovery efforts .

Similar efforts have been done in other cities including Oakland and San Diego.

“This is an innovative approach that protects community members when they are shopping and dining in the Downtown and throughout the city while supporting our local businesses as we gradually reopen”, said Derek Johnson, City Manager.

'Open SLO' could include temporary weekend downtown street closures for outdoor dining and pedestrian use, temporary conversion of some designated parking spots to parklets and pick-up/delivery areas, pop-up bike lanes, neighborhood “SLO Streets,” and the use of Mission Plaza and City-owned parking lots for outdoor dining space.

The city is now asking for the community’s input on this new program.

The survey is open through May 31st and can be completed here.

The 'Open SLO' program would be in place for up to one year. The timeline could be extended or considered for permanent installation if approved by the City Council.

For more information on the program, visit https://www.slocity.org/.