City of San Luis Obispo, CA

The City of San Luis Obispo is celebrating Earth Month by highlighting major investments in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and clean transportation, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to travel electric and reduce climate pollution.  

As more community members choose EVs, the City is expanding public charging across San Luis Obispo to meet growing demand.

 The new Cultural Arts District Parking Garage includes 41 Level 2 chargers, making it the largest public charging hub in the region and significantly increasing access to convenient downtown charging. An additional 19 Level 2 chargers are available on the first level of the Marsh Street Parking Garage. Charging at both locations is $0.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), plus the standard parking rate, to support ongoing operations and maintenance.

For faster charging, the City has partnered with a third-party provider to install Level 3 fast chargers at Santa Rosa Park and Johnson Park (adjacent to the YMCA). Eight more Level 3 chargers are coming soon to Railroad Square and the Calle Joaquin Park & Ride.

Charging spaces are reserved for vehicles that are actively charging. Parking in these spaces without plugging in may result in a citation.

More Electric Buses Now in Service
Six new electric buses are now operating in the SLO Transit fleet. These zero-emission buses help reduce air pollution, improve local air quality, and provide a quieter, more comfortable ride. They also keep the City on track with state requirements and its long-term fleet replacement plan.
 
Supporting Climate Action Goals
Together, these investments support the City’s Climate Action Plan by reducing carbon emissions and expanding access to cleaner transportation options. From public charging stations to electric buses, San Luis Obispo is making sustainable travel more convenient and accessible for everyone.

The City will also be out in the community celebrating sustainability at SLO Earth Fest 2026 on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Santa Rosa Park. This free, family-friendly event (registration required) brings together local organizations, resources, and activities focused on climate action and environmental stewardship. Stop by the City booths to learn more about clean transportation, EV charging, and simple ways to reduce your environmental impact.

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ABOUT SUSTAINABLE SLO
Sustainable SLO is the City of San Luis Obispo’s commitment to take action every day to improve our community for tomorrow. It reflects our collective effort to reduce pollution, clean up our air, protect natural resources and open space, and make San Luis Obispo more resilient to extreme heat, wildfires and flooding. From green City operations and efforts to reduce stormwater pollution to sustainable tourism programs and important waste and recycling programs, the City is working to cut pollution and litter locally every single day. Visit www.slocity.org/SustainableSLO for details.

 

Media Contact: Chris Read, Sustainability Manager, cread@slocity.org, (805) 781-7151