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It has been one year since San Luis Obispo City Council approved a plan aimed at improving downtown parking for everyone by making it easier, more affordable, and user-friendly.
Based on a 2024 Parking Rate Study and the approved parking improvements plan, the City launched a Parking Technology Roadmap, which was developed in collaboration with the community and downtown businesses. The objective is to enhance the downtown parking experience by utilizing modern and easy-to-use technology.
Here’s what has been achieved so far:
- Single Mobile Payment App Selected (February 2025)
After a thorough review process, PayByPhone was selected to serve as the City’s exclusive downtown street parking payment app. This simplifies the parking payment process by reducing the number of on-street app providers from three to one. The app can send you text reminders when your time is almost up and allows you to extend your parking directly from your phone. Plus, downtown businesses can now offer parking discounts through the app, marking an exciting first for San Luis Obispo.
- New Gated Garage System (March-June 2025)
We’re installing a new, consistent gate system in all City parking garages that makes things much easier, no more fumbling for change or tickets. You can pay using different methods, and if you’ve prepaid, the gate opens automatically just by reading your license plate.
- The system is already operational at 842 Palm Street (across from the Palm Theater).
- It is coming soon to 919 Palm Street and 872 Marsh Street (construction starts on June 2, 2025; Monday–Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Garages will remain fully open during construction.
- New Digital Permits and Citation Software (April 2025)
We’re now using a new citation processing system to ensure fair and accountable citation fine collection, maintaining compliance with City codes and the California Vehicle Code. Drivers with an unpaid parking ticket can expect to get a courtesy notice in the mail.
- New On-Street Pay Stations (Coming soon)
A comprehensive review of new on-street pay stations is currently being conducted. Selection criteria include ease of use, better screens and simpler menus.
“Our top priority is using technology to make downtown parking as simple and convenient as possible,” said Donna King, Parking Program Manager. “We’ve listened to the community and worked closely with local businesses. These upgrades will help reduce waiting times and make parking more accessible for everyone. Try the new tools and let us know what you think!”
These changes are just the beginning. The City is committed to continuing to improve the downtown experience, making it easier and faster to find and pay for parking.
About City Parking Services
The City of San Luis Obispo has been making significant improvements and changes to public parking programs in downtown San Luis Obispo over the past year to make parking easier and more affordable.
In May 2024, the City Council approved changes to parking services that would offer customers the lowest possible prices and would improve the parking user experience in a variety of ways. This includes technology improvements, such as simplifying payment options by reducing the number of parking payment apps to just one, upgrading on-street pay stations and installing a consistent gate system at all City parking garages.
For more details, visit Parking Projects | City of San Luis Obispo, CA
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