A proposed pilot program that seeks to reduce vehicular homelessness in San Luis Obispo took a significant step forward.
The City of San Luis Obispo’s Planning Commission considered and approved Director’s Action permit requests for the five sites that would take turns each month to host the proposed Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Pilot Program.
“We appreciate everyone who came out to speak and share their thoughts on this proposed program,” said Timothea Tway, City Community Development Director. “CAPSLO and City staff will continue to incorporate community feedback into the program plan, and we look forward to an ongoing collaborative process with host sites, neighbors, and program participants. We all want this to be a resounding success.”
Hundreds of community members are sleeping in their vehicles every night in San Luis Obispo County. In fact, there are currently 163 households on the waitlist for the 40 Prado Safe Parking Program, which is a program run by CAPSLO. This pilot program provides those individuals with a safe and supportive path to permanent housing.
CAPSLO and the City of San Luis Obispo designed the rotating model for the proposed program based on successful programs elsewhere. The goal? To help community members living in their vehicles move into permanent housing.
The approved host sites include:
- Calle Joaquin Park and Ride, 1545 Calle Joaquin
- City Corporation Yard, 25 Prado Rd
- Damon Garcia Sports Complex Parking Lot, 680 Industrial Way
- Renovate Church, 2075 Johnson Ave
- Journey Christian Fellowship, 317 Foothill Blvd
A sixth proposed site is located outside of City limits at Congregation Beth David and did not require action by the City’s Planning Commission.
On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the City’s Planning Commission considered the staff report that provides an overview of the program, participant requirements, traffic control, site security, good neighbor relations and how the program will be monitored and managed. The Commission also heard a number of public comments from community members, and ultimately unanimously approved all five sites as presented (one commissioner was absent).
“We have really appreciated the opportunity to work with the City on this project and to hear feedback from the community to design a program that meets the needs of its participants, partners and neighbors,” said Lawren Ramos, CAPSLO Community Services Program Director.
CAPSLO hosted a community meeting on the topic the week prior, which was a helpful forum for those with questions, ideas and concerns to learn more about the program.
Next Steps?
Funding is still needed to launch this pilot program. A portion of the funding will be recommended for the City’s budget in the next two-year financial plan and CAPSLO plans to apply for grant funding opportunities to cover the remaining program costs. In addition, CAPSLO will be working with the approved host sites to finalize written agreements and will refine site-specific details and a rotating monthly host schedule to ensure the program is effective.
CAPSLO and the City plan to provide ongoing opportunities for public engagement to ensure the success of the program.
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