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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEmail Batch 11 From:Kelley, Angela Sent:Thursday, June 26, 2025 4:48 PM To:King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer Subject:RE: Commercial Loading in Downtown Hi, I added a few thoughts below. I agree with Donna, it may be best to gather Cassandra’s thoughts on Monday and whomever is already scheduled to attend can deliver the information. I believe most of, if not all the issues are already mentioned below. Angela Kelley Parking Enforcement Supervisor Public Works Parking Services 1260 Chorro Street Suite B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3668 E akelley@slocity.org T 805.781.7233 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: King, Donna Sent: Thursday, June 26, 2025 4:32 PM To: Rice, Jennifer ; Kelley, Angela Subject: RE: Commercial Loading in Downtown Hi Jennifer, Thank you for talking this through with me today. As discussed, this is an issue in every downtown. Hopefully, the discussion with DT SLO members will help us come up with some solutions that will work for everyone. I think Cassandra can be helpful so she can give us her firsthand perspective in trying to address these concerns. @Kelley, Angela Perhaps we can meet with Cassandra together on Monday to make sure we have some good talking points and have a better understanding of what Cassandra is seeing now. I am good either with her attending the meeting on Tuesday or you and I can share what Cassandra tells us on Monday with the group on Tuesday. Let me know what works for you. Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 2 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, June 23, 2025 4:40 PM To: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Cc: Kelley, Angela <akelley@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading in Downtown Hello Donna and Angie, As you know, this is a never-ending conversation, and it has become a hot item again 뤳륝륟률륡륞 I met with some folks on DTSLO Executive Board today and they shared their recent observations and experiences. They are interested in continuing the conversation and have asked that we add this item to the Parking and Access Committee meeting as well for next week. Please take a look at the below and provide any initial thoughts you may have. The intent of the item next week isn’t to have solutions, but I think to acknowledge the concerns and let folks know we want to continuing working together if there are opportunities to improve. Another thought – would Cassandra be available to attend as a special guest? She has so much experience and probably sees a lot of what the business owners do. If she is available to attend I think that would be great.  The perception: the past few months have gotten worse, and it could be an industry-related thing, maybe due to lack of drivers, so companies are using larger trucks and drivers deliver to more places, so the delivery trucks are really big and they come throughout the day rather than limited to the morning.  The current commercial zones do not seem adequate for these larger trucks This is true on some streets.  700 Higuera is the worst location  Busiest days are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday  When trucks stop in the lane so close to the intersection it makes it hard for vehicles to have sufficient time to merge, and they get stuck more often. Can we encourage drivers to move up on a block as far as possible, so if drivers do get stuck behind them it doesn’t back up into the intersection? We do this already; the trick is catching it.  What kind of educational opportunities can we do – are any effective? Driver turnover is on-going.  Who is required to have a commercial permit? If they have commercial license and plate they are exempt, right? Need clarification on this question.  Garden Alley – used to be signed at 5-minute loading, now is signed no parking. Can it be turned back to loading – this was very helpful to the adjacent businesses to do a quick load from there rather than now they are on Higuera. Large trucks might not be able to make the turn now that the street is narrow but smaller delivery trucks would be ok. Thanks for anything you can share! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org 3 Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Wednesday, July 9, 2025 12:29 PM To:Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna Cc:Samantha Welch Subject:Fwd: Commercial Parking Higuera Attachments:IMG_4196.jpeg; IMG_4181.jpeg; IMG_4180.jpeg Hi Jennifer and Donna! I wanted to share this email with you from Samantha who serves on DSLO board. She has been a part of the conversations regarding commercial loading trucks both at our weekly city meeting as well as at parking and access. Any further discussion we could have prior to Environment Committee meeting would be great! Thanks Donna nd Jennifer! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Samantha Welch <samantha@bluemangomanagement.com> Date: Wed, Jul 9, 2025 at 12:09 PM Subject: Commercial Parking Higuera To: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Hi! I spoke with the parking enforcement officer yesterday that was time stamping the 4 runner in the loading zone when I saw the Sysco truck parked in front of Novo (at 3pm- they were delivering to the Carissa). She did not mark anything for the Sysco truck- I asked if there is any recourse for trucks parked in the lane- and she said “no- she’s been told that as long as they are in the right lane not the left lane to leave them alone”. The whole yellow and white passenger loading zones were open apart from the 4 runner parked at the very front of it. The second photo of the Jordanos truck was today in front of McClintocks- the lift gate was down and blocking that fire alley. There was also a Barrel house truck parked in front of it a few minutes earlier. If parking enforcement position is that the trucks can park wherever they want in DT as long as it’s the right lane- then I don’t think there is anything to be done… But that was not the impression I got from the parking task force meeting. But I actually did not see a commercial loading zone in that Flour House Block… So maybe that is why??? Anyway- just passing this along as it might be helpful for our discussion and for Jennifer and Donna. Education and enforcement might be all it takes. And of course, hearing the driver perspective on availability and size of spaces. maybe ask them what are the barriers for them being able to use the marked loading spaces? 2 Thanks. Sam Samantha Welch Director of Operations Blue Mango Management Novo Restaurant Luna Red Restaurant Robin’s Restaurant 땡땢 (805) 844-3197 To help protect your priv acy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 1 From:Brocco, Christine Sent:Thursday, July 16, 2026 8:55 AM To:King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer Subject:Commercial Loading Zone Feedback Summary Here's a concise summary of the survey feedback organized by common themes:  Many respondents said delivery trucks are still not using the new loading zone, instead continuing to stop in the travel lane and block traffic.  Loss of customer parking was the most common concern. Many felt the removal of parking spaces negatively impacts downtown businesses, customers, and visitors.  Several respondents opposed the project overall, describing it as confusing, ineffective, harmful to business, or a deterrent to visiting downtown.  Many respondents said enforcement is the key issue. They believe the loading zone cannot be successful unless trucks are required to use it and vehicles illegally stopping in travel lanes are cited.  Several respondents reported improved traffic flow, particularly during morning delivery hours, and said the longer loading zone has reduced backups.  Commercial drivers and some business owners praised the longer loading zone, saying it makes it easier to find space to load and unload and accommodates larger trucks.  Some respondents said the loading zone is underutilized, often sitting empty while trucks continue to park elsewhere.  Several respondents requested restoring some of the removed parking spaces if the loading zone continues to be underused.  Some business owners requested changes to the commercial loading permit program, including lower costs, expanded eligibility, or exemptions for business owners loading their own supplies.  A few respondents requested additional signage and continued enforcement to discourage non- commercial vehicles from parking in loading zones.  Some respondents felt the City did not adequately communicate the project before implementation, particularly with directly affected businesses.  Several comments expressed broader concerns about the Higuera Street bike lane, arguing it reduces traffic capacity, removes parking, and creates safety issues. Others felt the bike lane—not the loading zone—is the primary cause of congestion.  A small number of respondents expressed support for the bike lane or appreciated that the pilot improved conditions for deliveries.  Some respondents reported no concerns, noting they had heard no complaints or believed the changes appeared to be working.  A few respondents said the project improved their ability to load and unload, reducing stress and making deliveries more convenient. Overall sentiment: Feedback was mixed but leaned negative. The most frequent concerns centered on the loss of parking, perceived lack of loading zone utilization, and the need for stronger enforcement of delivery truck behavior. Positive feedback primarily came from commercial drivers and businesses that regularly use loading zones, who reported improved access and traffic flow. Christine Brocco Mobility Services Communications Coordinator Public Works 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E cbrocco@slocity.org 2 T 805.781.7048 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:King, Donna Sent:Tuesday, August 5, 2025 1:35 PM To:King, Donna Cc:Kelley, Angela; Debonis, Michael Subject:DRAFT- PLEASE REVIEW - Commercial Loading Zone recommendations Hi Jennifer, We had the opportunity to observe the commercial loading zone (CLZ) curbs in the 700 block of Higuera on Thursday 7/31 from 11am – 12pm. This area has been reported as the most impacted by deliveries and the time and date we chose was a very busy day and time for deliveries and traffic on the street. This observation and discussion gave us a good opportunity to discuss options and come up with some solutions. OBSERVATIONS:  Large semi-trucks (tractor-trailers) will not use the CLZ curbs and will continue to block the lane due to: o Curb clutter (sign poles, trees, etc) o Risks associated with blocking and/or crossing bike lanes o Maneuverability of large trucks from traffic lane to curb space  Smaller delivery trucks (box trucks, FedEx, UPS, etc) could not access the CLZ curb due to passenger vehicles blocking all or a portion of the curb  When CLZ curbs were clear, the smaller trucks utilized the curb  CLZ permit holders were parked at the CLZ curb without loading and unloading. The following violations were observed: o No active loading and loading – It appeared business owners/employees are using these curbs for quick stops into their businesses, not loading o Remaining longer than 30 minutes o Vehicles had permits displayed, but no professional delivery signs as specified in the muni code  Passenger vehicles without permits regularly parked in violation at the CLZ curb o Enforcement would need to stand at each curb to monitor this issue due to the high volume o I believe this occurs more frequently because other passenger vehicles without any commercial signs are already parked there and it appears allowable  SLO Lofts (700 Higuera) has a single passenger loading space that was occupied by 1 vehicle for the entire time we were there. Hotel check-out was occurring during our observation time and guests were using the CLZ as loading space for luggage loading. RESEARCH MATERIALS After our meeting, I researched the history of CLZ ordinances and found the CAR and Ordinance that established the CLZ permits. I have copied them on SharePoint here for reference: 09_15_1998, 3 - COMMERCIAL LOADING ZONE ORDINANCE CHANGE.pdf O-1343 adding CLZ permits.pdf Municipal Code - https://sanluisobispo.municipal.codes/Code/10.44.030 RECOMMENDATIONS: 2 Please let me know your thoughts and if we should proceed with this plan. Donna King Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Collins, Scott Sent:Thursday, August 14, 2025 1:16 PM To:Schwartz, Luke; Cruce, Greg; Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna Subject:RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Luke! Very helpful. And including Donna on here as you suggested. -Scott From: Schwartz, Luke Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 1:09 PM To: Collins, Scott ; Cruce, Greg ; Floyd, Aaron ; Rice, Jennifer Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes I’d suggest Jen loop in Donna to this discussion as well, as parking enforcement and operations staff have the best understanding of day-to-day commercial loading needs and enforcement challenges. We can summarize a more detailed response to the items below, but I’ll note the following for now: 1. The Downtown Concept Plan was the original document establishing the policy intent to reduce Marsh and Higuera from 3 to 2 traffic lanes in the downtown core, and add bike lane separation. The City’s subsequent ATP and Traffic Safety Reports also recommended these measures to calm traffic and improve bike & pedestrian safety. One of the trade-offs with this is higher propensity for large commercial vehicles to block a traffic lane – they used to do this anyways, but left 2 other lanes open. 2. I don’t recall many, if any, substantive modifications to commercial loading zones when the road diet and bike lane improvements were made in the downtown core as part of the 2022 Paving Project. 3. Most of the modifications to passenger and commercial loading zones in the downtown made in the past 5 years were done during throws of COVID, with many fluctuating demands and needs for managing curb space (increase in pick-up/delivery customers, introduction of parklets, changes in business turnover, etc.). One last observation I’ve had is that I see many of the commercial delivery drivers choosing not to park along the curbside, even when there are no apparent tree conflicts and designated curbside space is available. My guess is it’s faster/easier for the driver to pull in and out and load/unload their goods from the rear of the truck, but that’s just may observation. Parking staff would have better understanding. Thanks, Luke Schwartz Transportation Manager Public Works Transportation Planning/Engineering 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E LSchwartz@slocity.org T 805.781.7190 2 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:59 PM To: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Greg! I appreciate the quick response. I’d like to discuss with you and Aaron before moving on the pruning effort (mainly to get a sense of the workload in Urban Forestry, budget, etc). Thanks! -Scott From: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:54 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Maintenance can do tree pruning along Higuera, focusing in the loading zones. I’ll work with Urban Forestry to plan this work and will update this group, as well as DT SLO and Communications once we have dates. Please let me know if you have any other questions or would like me to respond directly to Councilmember Shoresman with this info. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:11 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: FW: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi All, Including Luke and Greg C. on this email chain. Please advise on the questions below. -Scott From: Collins, Scott Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:10 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Cc: Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Councilmember Shoresman. Aaron and I will work with PW staff on those questions (both the bike lanes/loading zone placement and potential for tree trimming). 3 -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 11:46 AM To: McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Cc: Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org> Subject: Fw: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi everyone, Sorry for “spamming” so many people on this, but wasn’t sure who was best to prepare a response to share with Downtown SLO. See the below email trail describing an issue that was brought up at the Downtown SLO Board Meeting this past Tuesday morning. In summary, Downtown businesses have been having problems with delivery vehicles parking in the street, making their deliveries gradually later and later in the day, parking in front of stores, etc. This frustration and trouble shooting around it has come up the last couple of meetings. But this time, the conversation turned to the bike lanes and there were questions about how it was determined where the bike lanes would go (as they were being planned) and where the loading zones were moved to, etc. They wanted to know what information was used to make these decisions, essentially, because of the new-ish delivery problems happening more recently. Maybe related, but not directly, I don’t know…one of the reports they get from drivers is that they can’t put their trucks in the loading zones because of interference with tree branches. They were asking if trimming might be appropriate, but they weren’t asking for a “report back” on that, specifically. So, I guess the “ask” is, can we have someone prepare an explanation of the planning process around the bike lane implementation and the moving of loading zones and how it was determined where they should go? Open to feedback on how to best provide this, but I think just something that is suitable to provide to LeBren so she can share with the Board. Thank you! Michelle Shoresman Vice Mayor City of San Luis Obispo From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 8:46:33 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Subject: Re: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes No worries at all! From what I gathered at the BOD meeting, folks just wanted to get an understanding of why. Whereas there is not anger around the bikes, the talk is these issues did not persist until the bike lanes were put in. The belief is that the "bike lanes are not used so why are they there." Obviously that is a general statement but that is the 4 business sentiment around it. So I guess just understanding the why behind it and if the loading zones were shifted because of it. And thanks for that compliment! The best career move I've ever could've made! For coffee, what days generally work best for you? LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Aug 13, 2025 at 8:20 PM Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> wrote: Yes! I just didn’t have a chance to email the right people yet. Did you want just a brief explanation of what was used to determine where bike lanes should go vs. loading and commercial zones? Or did you want a presentation so people could ask questions? Just want to make sure I ask for the right thing. 뤳륝륟률륡륞 And YES to coffee too! Let me know some times that work for you, and I will pick one or counter. Thanks for all you are doing. You are rocking it (duh!). 뤳륝륟률륡륞 From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 12:38 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Subject: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi again! Just wanting to follow-up with information to board on the bike lanes that was discussed yesterday. Can you share that info/documentation when you have a moment? Lastly, we haven't chatted in a while. Would you be up for coffee sometime just to catch up? Thanks Michelle! 5 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 1 From:Rice, Jennifer Sent:Thursday, August 14, 2025 4:54 PM To:Collins, Scott; Schwartz, Luke; Cruce, Greg; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna Subject:RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hello All, Thank you, Luke for providing background information on the bike facility planning in downtown. From a commercial loading zone perspective, Donna and her staff have been actively working on this as well, as DTSLO communicated these concerns about a month ago to our team. Parking staff has been both observing, engaging, and researching various materials to strategize potential solutions and propose the below near/mid/long-term recommendations. See below that Donna and her team prepared. Would value any input from this group. OBSERVATIONS:  Large semi-trucks (tractor-trailers) will not use the commercial loading zone (CLZ) curbs and will continue to block the lane due to: o Curb clutter (sign poles, trees, etc) o Risks associated with blocking and/or crossing bike lanes o Maneuverability of large trucks from traffic lane to curb space  Smaller delivery trucks (box trucks, FedEx, UPS, etc) could not access the CLZ curb due to passenger vehicles blocking all or a portion of the curb  When CLZ curbs were clear, the smaller trucks utilized the curb  CLZ permit holders were parked at the CLZ curb without loading and unloading. The following violations were observed: o No active loading and loading – It appeared business owners/employees are using these curbs for quick stops into their businesses, not loading o Remaining longer than 30 minutes o Vehicles had permits displayed, but no professional delivery signs as specified in the muni code  Passenger vehicles without permits regularly parked in violation at the CLZ curb o Enforcement would need to stand at each curb to monitor this issue due to the high volume o I believe this occurs more frequently because other passenger vehicles without any commercial signs are already parked there and it appears allowable  SLO Lofts (700 Higuera) has a single passenger loading space that was occupied by 1 vehicle for the entire time we were there. Hotel check-out was occurring during our observation time and guests were using the CLZ as loading space for luggage loading. 2 Please let me know if you have any input. While this is an ongoing issue every commercial area faces, I think these recommendations Parking has put together have merit and are worth implementation and continued monitoring. Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Collins, Scott Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 1:16 PM To: Schwartz, Luke ; Cruce, Greg ; Floyd, Aaron ; Rice, Jennifer ; King, Donna Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Luke! Very helpful. And including Donna on here as you suggested. -Scott From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 1:09 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes I’d suggest Jen loop in Donna to this discussion as well, as parking enforcement and operations staff have the best understanding of day-to-day commercial loading needs and enforcement challenges. We can summarize a more detailed response to the items below, but I’ll note the following for now: 1. The Downtown Concept Plan was the original document establishing the policy intent to reduce Marsh and Higuera from 3 to 2 traffic lanes in the downtown core, and add bike lane separation. The City’s subsequent ATP and Traffic Safety Reports also recommended these measures to calm traffic and improve bike & 3 pedestrian safety. One of the trade-offs with this is higher propensity for large commercial vehicles to block a traffic lane – they used to do this anyways, but left 2 other lanes open. 2. I don’t recall many, if any, substantive modifications to commercial loading zones when the road diet and bike lane improvements were made in the downtown core as part of the 2022 Paving Project. 3. Most of the modifications to passenger and commercial loading zones in the downtown made in the past 5 years were done during throws of COVID, with many fluctuating demands and needs for managing curb space (increase in pick-up/delivery customers, introduction of parklets, changes in business turnover, etc.). One last observation I’ve had is that I see many of the commercial delivery drivers choosing not to park along the curbside, even when there are no apparent tree conflicts and designated curbside space is available. My guess is it’s faster/easier for the driver to pull in and out and load/unload their goods from the rear of the truck, but that’s just may observation. Parking staff would have better understanding. Thanks, Luke Schwartz Transportation Manager Public Works Transportation Planning/Engineering 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E LSchwartz@slocity.org T 805.781.7190 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:59 PM To: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Greg! I appreciate the quick response. I’d like to discuss with you and Aaron before moving on the pruning effort (mainly to get a sense of the workload in Urban Forestry, budget, etc). Thanks! -Scott From: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:54 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Maintenance can do tree pruning along Higuera, focusing in the loading zones. I’ll work with Urban Forestry to plan this work and will update this group, as well as DT SLO and Communications once we have dates. Please let me know if you have any other questions or would like me to respond directly to Councilmember Shoresman with this info. 4 Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:11 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: FW: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi All, Including Luke and Greg C. on this email chain. Please advise on the questions below. -Scott From: Collins, Scott Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 12:10 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Cc: Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org> Subject: RE: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Thanks, Councilmember Shoresman. Aaron and I will work with PW staff on those questions (both the bike lanes/loading zone placement and potential for tree trimming). -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 11:46 AM To: McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Cc: Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org> Subject: Fw: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi everyone, Sorry for “spamming” so many people on this, but wasn’t sure who was best to prepare a response to share with Downtown SLO. See the below email trail describing an issue that was brought up at the Downtown SLO Board Meeting this past Tuesday morning. In summary, Downtown businesses have been having problems with delivery vehicles parking in the street, making their deliveries gradually later and later in the day, parking in front of stores, etc. This frustration and trouble shooting around it has come up the last couple of meetings. But this time, the conversation turned to the bike lanes and there were questions about how it was determined where the bike lanes would go (as they were being planned) and where the loading zones were moved to, etc. They wanted to know what information was used to make these decisions, essentially, because of the new-ish delivery problems happening more recently. 5 Maybe related, but not directly, I don’t know…one of the reports they get from drivers is that they can’t put their trucks in the loading zones because of interference with tree branches. They were asking if trimming might be appropriate, but they weren’t asking for a “report back” on that, specifically. So, I guess the “ask” is, can we have someone prepare an explanation of the planning process around the bike lane implementation and the moving of loading zones and how it was determined where they should go? Open to feedback on how to best provide this, but I think just something that is suitable to provide to LeBren so she can share with the Board. Thank you! Michelle Shoresman Vice Mayor City of San Luis Obispo From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2025 8:46:33 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Subject: Re: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes No worries at all! From what I gathered at the BOD meeting, folks just wanted to get an understanding of why. Whereas there is not anger around the bikes, the talk is these issues did not persist until the bike lanes were put in. The belief is that the "bike lanes are not used so why are they there." Obviously that is a general statement but that is the business sentiment around it. So I guess just understanding the why behind it and if the loading zones were shifted because of it. And thanks for that compliment! The best career move I've ever could've made! For coffee, what days generally work best for you? LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Aug 13, 2025 at 8:20 PM Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> wrote: Yes! I just didn’t have a chance to email the right people yet. Did you want just a brief explanation of what was used to determine where bike lanes should go vs. loading and commercial zones? Or did you want a presentation so people could ask questions? Just want to make sure I ask for the right thing. 뤳륝륟률륡륞 6 And YES to coffee too! Let me know some times that work for you, and I will pick one or counter. Thanks for all you are doing. You are rocking it (duh!). 뤳륝륟률륡륞 From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 12:38 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Subject: BOD FOllow-up of Bike Lanes Hi again! Just wanting to follow-up with information to board on the bike lanes that was discussed yesterday. Can you share that info/documentation when you have a moment? Lastly, we haven't chatted in a while. Would you be up for coffee sometime just to catch up? Thanks Michelle! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 1 From:Rice, Jennifer Sent:Wednesday, September 3, 2025 4:02 PM To:LeBren Harris Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna Subject:Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. 2 Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To:Rice, Jennifer Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna Subject:Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Completed HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners: 2  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Monday, September 8, 2025 3:58 PM To:Rice, Jennifer Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Cruce, Greg Subject:Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Great! Thanks Jennifer! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Mon, Sep 8, 2025 at 3:07 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? 2 Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners: Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks. Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane. Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly Require active loading within 8 minutes. 3 Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits. Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation. Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks. Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees. Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Cruce, Greg Sent:Wednesday, September 10, 2025 2:29 PM To:LeBren Harris Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer; Harvey, Billy; Hermann, Greg; Fiedler, Laura Subject:RE: FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones LeBren, I would recommend waiting until the pruning is complete until Greenvale does their lighting work. Are you having Greenvale completely rehang the lights or reattaching section that have become loose? In the past, our contractor has removed the lights needed to prune and leave in a coil to be rehung. Depending on your project we will plan accordingly. If it would be helpful to have some team members meet on-site to discuss, just let me know. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11:56 AM To: Cruce, Greg Cc: Collins, Scott ; Floyd, Aaron ; King, Donna ; Rice, Jennifer ; Harvey, Billy ; Hermann, Greg ; Fiedler, Laura Subject: Re: FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Thanks for this update Greg! We are coordinating with Greenvale to re-do the lights in the trees on Higuera street. Would you advise to wait until the tree pruning is complete or would it be ok to coordinate the work with Greenvale before you start the pruning? LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at 11:53 AM Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, I wanted to check in on the downtown tree pruning. We do not have exact dates at this point but are expecting this work to start mid to late October. Once we have confirmation, we’ll let you and your team know as well as communications to the public. For awareness, our traditional working hours for pruning in the downtown have been 6:00am – 11:00 am, and we are planning for the same this cycle. We’ll be in touch soon and let me know if you have any questions in the meantime. 2 Thanks, Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 3:58 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Great! Thanks Jennifer! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Mon, Sep 8, 2025 at 3:07 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to 3 stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! 4 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly 5  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org 6 Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Wednesday, September 10, 2025 3:44 PM To:Cruce, Greg Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer; Harvey, Billy; Hermann, Greg; Fiedler, Laura Subject:Re: FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Greg! The plan is to have Greenvale completely re-do the lights. I will advise them we will set a date in late fall early winter after the tree pruning is complete. Thanks for this confirmation! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at 2:28 PM Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> wrote: LeBren, I would recommend waiting until the pruning is complete until Greenvale does their lighting work. Are you having Greenvale completely rehang the lights or reattaching section that have become loose? In the past, our contractor has removed the lights needed to prune and leave in a coil to be rehung. Depending on your project we will plan accordingly. If it would be helpful to have some team members meet on-site to discuss, just let me know. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11:56 AM To: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Harvey, Billy <BHarvey@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org>; Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org> Subject: Re: FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Thanks for this update Greg! We are coordinating with Greenvale to re-do the lights in the trees on Higuera street. Would you advise to wait until the tree pruning is complete or would it be ok to coordinate the work with Greenvale before you start the pruning? 2 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at 11:53 AM Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, I wanted to check in on the downtown tree pruning. We do not have exact dates at this point but are expecting this work to start mid to late October. Once we have confirmation, we’ll let you and your team know as well as communications to the public. For awareness, our traditional working hours for pruning in the downtown have been 6:00am – 11:00 am, and we are planning for the same this cycle. We’ll be in touch soon and let me know if you have any questions in the meantime. Thanks, Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 3:58 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Great! Thanks Jennifer! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Mon, Sep 8, 2025 at 3:07 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! 3 Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was 4 implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! 5 Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Cruce, Greg Sent:Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11:54 AM To:LeBren Harris Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer; Harvey, Billy; Hermann, Greg; Fiedler, Laura Subject:FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Hello LeBren, I wanted to check in on the downtown tree pruning. We do not have exact dates at this point but are expecting this work to start mid to late October. Once we have confirmation, we’ll let you and your team know as well as communications to the public. For awareness, our traditional working hours for pruning in the downtown have been 6:00am – 11:00 am, and we are planning for the same this cycle. We’ll be in touch soon and let me know if you have any questions in the meantime. Thanks, Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 3:58 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Great! Thanks Jennifer! LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Mon, Sep 8, 2025 at 3:07 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to 2 stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! 3 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes. 4  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11:56 AM To:Cruce, Greg Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer; Harvey, Billy; Hermann, Greg; Fiedler, Laura Subject:Re: FW: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Thanks for this update Greg! We are coordinating with Greenvale to re-do the lights in the trees on Higuera street. Would you advise to wait until the tree pruning is complete or would it be ok to coordinate the work with Greenvale before you start the pruning? To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at 11:53 AM Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, I wanted to check in on the downtown tree pruning. We do not have exact dates at this point but are expecting this work to start mid to late October. Once we have confirmation, we’ll let you and your team know as well as communications to the public. For awareness, our traditional working hours for pruning in the downtown have been 6:00am – 11:00 am, and we are planning for the same this cycle. We’ll be in touch soon and let me know if you have any questions in the meantime. Thanks, Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 3:58 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Great! Thanks Jennifer! 2 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Mon, Sep 8, 2025 at 3:07 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! 3 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space 4  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kelley, Angela Sent:Wednesday, October 1, 2025 4:05 PM To:King, Donna Cc:Debonis, Michael Subject:Commercial Zone Permit Application Attachments:website.JPG; Capture.JPG; Commercial Loading Zone Permit Donna, I submitted a Commercial Loading Zone permit application online through this link https://slolf.slocity.org/Forms/CLZ. The form is routed to the Parking Info email box. We also have some edits to make on our website. Should we coordinate with Christine on those, or would it be better to have Amber handle them? Should we meet, once you take a full look at the process and come up with a plan for how you want everything to look and function moving forward? I would like to be clear on it. Terms and Conditions- CLZ Permit Terms and Conditions.pdf Front Counter Handout- CLZ Permit Rules.pdf OLD- https://www.slocity.org/home/showpublisheddocument/29061/637619560315000000 (NEEDS TO BE REMOVED FROM WEDSITE) All Dox can be found here. Commercial Loading Zones Angela Kelley Parking Enforcement Supervisor Public Works Parking Services 1260 Chorro Street Suite B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3668 E akelley@slocity.org T 805.781.7233 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Cruce, Greg Sent:Thursday, October 9, 2025 5:02 PM To:Floyd, Aaron Cc:Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna Subject:FW: Higuera Street Pruning Project Jen, Donna, and I discussed today, and we plan to have a maintenance and parking staff member present during the pruning in the 700 and 800 block until 11:00 am to minimize impacts. Outside of those blocks, it will be only maintenance staff assigned to be present the entire duration of the work unless we identify a need for Parking to join. Let us know if you have any questions, concerns, or need clarity. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: Cruce, Greg Sent: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 9:26 AM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Higuera Street Pruning Project We’re starting at the top of Higuera (1000 block), so we’ll have a couple of weeks before we get to the 700 block. We’ll also be cleaned up and off Higuera by 11am. Can we respond that we’ll monitor the work and Parking and Maintenance staff will work collectively to minimize impacts, especially with loading zones? Not sure if that is too loose of an answer. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Sent: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 9:12 AM To: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Higuera Street Pruning Project Thanks Greg, and my first thought is that since the primary concerns for loading zones are localized to the 700 block of Higuera (and later into the day), my recommendation would be to consider prioritizing that particular block to start at 7 AM. Parking staff can certainly be present to assist with compliance as necessary, but the congestion concern related to loading is not really applicable that early in the morning. Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org 2 T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 7:19 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Higuera Street Pruning Project To clarify, there will be no parking during the pruning on the specific blocks the crews are working. Maintenance will have an MCC on-site to help alleviate issues as they come up, but they are not savvy to parking regulations. I do see a benefit to having staff make sure the blocks not being pruned are being used properly to lessen any traffic backup. We can also explore signage on a-frame barricades during this project to clearly articulate the loading zone requirements. Jen and I can huddle and loop back with a plan. Greg Cruce Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations Public Works Department 805.781.7264 gcruce@slocity.org From: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 7:06 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Higuera Street Pruning Project Thoughts on this? From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 4:19 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Higuera Street Pruning Project Passing along the idea below to help with impacts related to pruning trees DT. -Scott From: Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 3:50 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Higuera Street Pruning Project Someone to basically stay stationed where we are doing the pruning to make sure no one parks in loading zones that shouldn’t be there and that delivery trucks use the loading zones. From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 3:41 PM To: Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Higuera Street Pruning Project 3 In general, or to support the tree pruning? AT this point we are taking in all ideas before passing judgement on any of them. -Scott From: Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 3:39 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Higuera Street Pruning Project Crazy idea, but what if we just assigned a parking enforcement officer to this to make sure loading zones are used properly and we don’t have big backups? Greg From: Harvey, Billy <BHarvey@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 3:37 PM To: City Communications <communications@slocity.org>; Transportation <transportation@slocity.org>; LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Kelley, Angela <akelley@slocity.org>; Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Yanez, James <jyanez@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>; Boyle, Ellen <eboyle@slocity.org>; Genard, Allie <agenard@slocity.org>; Weidler, Hayley <hweidler@slocity.org>; Gault, Walter <wgault@slocity.org> Subject: Higuera Street Pruning Project Good afternoon, I am reaching out to inform everyone of an upcoming downtown street tree pruning project along Higuera, extending from Santa Rosa to Nipomo. The goal of this project is to provide ample clearance away from buildings, lights and traffic signals, and clearance above commercial loading zones throughout this corridor. Here are the details;  Start Date: October 20th, 2025  Duration: Approximately 20 working days  Schedule: Monday through Friday (no weekends)  Start Time: Traffic control setup will begin at 6:00am each day, and pruning operations will commence at 7:00am.  Stop Time: Work concludes and all traffic control/equipment cleared: By 11:00 AM daily. There will be no afternoon work on this project. Two contracted crews will be performing the work, with support from the City’s Urban Forestry team. Work will proceed in a block-by-block progression, completing one side of the street before crossing to the opposite side. To minimize disruption, at least one traffic lane will remain open at all times throughout the duration of the project. Earlier today, City staff conducted in-person outreach to notify all directly impacted business owners along the project route. Additionally, public outreach through social media and other channels will be initiated shortly to inform the broader community. The project will be actively monitored by Maintenance Contract Coordinator Eric Baker (805-431-0396). Should you have any questions or concerns at any point during the project, please feel free to reach out to Eric or to myself directly (805-781-7202). 4 This section of work will be completed before the holiday season, and crews will be moving to other sections of the downtown after the first of the year. Additional communications will be sent in December with an updated schedule for this work. Thank you for your continued partnership and cooperation as we work to enhance the long-term health, safety and accessibility of our downtown environment. Also, please feel free to forward this email onto any staff member or community partner that was inadvertently left off the email. Billy Harvey Maintenance Superintendent Public Works Parks and Urban Forestry 25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-7314 E BHarvey@slocity.org T 805.781.7202 C 805.431.4455 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Collins, Scott Sent:Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna Subject:Commercial Loading Zone update Attachments:10.21.25 Committee Loading Zone and Bike Lane.pdf BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience.  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already.  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. 2 Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year)  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers.  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 Commercial Loading in Downtown SLO 2 Findings: What we are hearing and seeing •Large commercial vehicles loading/unloading throughout the day and staging in vehicle lane •During busiest times of day •Blocking on-street parking •Congesting traffic •Primary location of concern is 700 block of Higuera •Passenger vehicles using commercial loading zones blocking access for delivery trucks (sometimes displayed commercial permits, other times did not). •Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones •Smaller box trucks more often use loading zones but were often blocked by the passenger vehicles •Commercial trucks using the lane to load/unload have been observed blocking in vehicles in paid parking areas •Size of loading commercial zones are not long enough for large trucks to maneuver into/out of •Drivers not comfortable crossing over bike lane due to visibility •Tree limbs encroaching 3 Potential Strategies Staff Level Council Level State Level DTSLO/Business Owner Level Near Term Education/Outreach Provide keys to drivers for early delivery Increased enforcement Continued communicationTree/Limb Trimming Downtown Mid-Term Re -allocate curb space Commercial permit holders to use paid parking areas Long-Term Roadway redesign to shift bike lane Ordinance limiting deliveries to specific times Allow commercial trucks to park in bike laneRoadway redesign to remove bike lane 4 Staff Level Recommendations Near term Recommendations (0-3 months)Trade-Off Trim tree limbs encroaching over the curb space Provide clear communication to all Commercial Loading Zone (CLZ) permit applicants during October Ongoing education Targeted enforcement of permit regulations including Enforcement likely to impact business owners 5 Staff Level Recommendations Midterm Recommendations (3-9 months)Trade-Off Re -allocate curb space for loading zones (potentially both commercial and passenger) Potential reduction of public parking spaces 6 Staff Level Recommendations Longterm Considerations (1-3+ years)Trade-Off Consider roadway design to shift bike lane to the curbside where it is adjacent to commercial loading Reduction of public parking spaces, potential Emergency Response challenges 7 Council Level – Policy Shift Midterm (3-9 months)Trade-Off Develop/pilot program to allow commercial permit holders to parking in passenger loading or paid parking areas Reduced availability for visitors/shoppers & inability to effectively enforce Longterm (1-3+ years)Trade-Off Ordinance limiting deliveries to specific times Impact on deliveries to business - when or increased costs - & enforcement implications Redesign of roadway to remove bike facilities. Increased vehicle speeds → reduced safety for people walking and biking → reduced walkability (which can impact downtown vitality) Reduced access for community members using or reliant on non-vehicle transportation → increased demand on public parking for downtown employees Not in alignment with climate action goals, policies, plans 8 State Level – Law Amendment Longterm (several years)Trade-Off Allow Commercial Drivers to share/park in bike lane. This is currently a California Vehicle Code violation and would require a change to the state law. For reference: CVC 21211(b) Safety of people bicycling 9 DTSLO/Business Owner Level Strategies Near term (0-3 months) Potential for more deliveries to be provided keys for earlier delivery into business Continued communication between business staff and delivery companies directly 10 Staff Recommendation Staff Level Council Level State Level DTSLO/Business Owner Level Near Term Education/Outreach Provide keys to drivers for early delivery Increased enforcement Continued communicationTree/Limb Trimming Downtown Mid-Term Re -allocate curb space Commercial permit holders to use paid parking areas Long-Term Roadway redesign to shift bike lane Ordinance limiting deliveries to specific times Allow commercial trucks to park in bike laneRoadway redesign to remove bike lane 11 Downtown Access Stats Traffic Volumes Marsh and Higuera 1.Vehicle segment volumes – down approx. 16% since pandemic 2.Bicycle volume – increased approx. 6% 3.Pedestrian volume – increased approx. 10% 4.Point of reference a.Pre-pandemic all modes (vehicle + bike + ped) = average of 10,872 travelers b.Post-pandemic all modes (vehicle + bike + ped) = average of 9,822 travelers 12 Downtown Access Stats, cont. 1.Vehicle Speeds reduced by 27% a.33 MPH to 23-25 MPH 2.Safety Reports a.Pre-pandemic high rates of pedestrian crashes: Higuera & Morro Street, Higuera & Broad Street Marsh & Chorro Street, and Marsh & Osos Street b.Several proven counter measures identified to address this including: •Reduce from 3-2 vehicle lanes •Pedestrian head start at intersections •High-visibility crosswalk 1 From:Collins, Scott Sent:Monday, October 27, 2025 8:53 AM To:Shoresman, Michelle Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Good Morning, Michelle, Staff provided the following additional information on the highlighted items: Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Recent input from delivery drivers is that there are certain loading zones that are more challenging for them to maneuver, while there are other locations they have indicated would be helpful for a loading zone to exist. These are considerations staff will review, evaluate, and discuss with adjacent businesses to see if there are opportunities to shift what we currently have. Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  This is referring to conversation that businesses can have directly with the delivery drivers to encourage/request that they deliver by certain times, request that they use loading zones, consider providing a key for drivers to deliver without on-site staff. Potential bike lane modifications moving the bike lane to the curb  Staff could evaluate transitioning the bike lane to the curbside for the duration of commercial loading zones, or further. This concept was discussed as an alternative prior to the current design, but was not the preferred design at that time. Please let me know if you have further questions. Thanks! -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 3:27 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi there, No need to respond to this now, over the weekend. But, I am highlighting the areas that are less clear to me and I could use some clarification when possible. Thanks! Michelle From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading Zone update 2 BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience.  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already.  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year)  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers. 3  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Shoresman, Michelle Sent:Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:21 PM To:Collins, Scott Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks Scott. This helps a lot. I’m still a little confused by the last item though….what is the sentiment around moving the bike lane to the curb? Does this mean they favor parking closer to the traffic with the bikelane at the curb, as it is on Marsh Street? Thanks. From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, October 27, 2025 8:53 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Good Morning, Michelle, Staff provided the following additional information on the highlighted items: Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Recent input from delivery drivers is that there are certain loading zones that are more challenging for them to maneuver, while there are other locations they have indicated would be helpful for a loading zone to exist. These are considerations staff will review, evaluate, and discuss with adjacent businesses to see if there are opportunities to shift what we currently have. Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  This is referring to conversation that businesses can have directly with the delivery drivers to encourage/request that they deliver by certain times, request that they use loading zones, consider providing a key for drivers to deliver without on-site staff. Potential bike lane modifications moving the bike lane to the curb  Staff could evaluate transitioning the bike lane to the curbside for the duration of commercial loading zones, or further. This concept was discussed as an alternative prior to the current design, but was not the preferred design at that time. Please let me know if you have further questions. Thanks! -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 3:27 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update 2 Hi there, No need to respond to this now, over the weekend. But, I am highlighting the areas that are less clear to me and I could use some clarification when possible. Thanks! Michelle From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading Zone update BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience.  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already. 3  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year)  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers.  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Collins, Scott Sent:Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:26 PM To:Shoresman, Michelle Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi Michelle, That was staff’s attempt to find a way to address the commercial loading – bike lane conflicts…not necessarily something that was recommended or brought forward by businesses or DSLO. That option would mean the bike lane would be at the curb like it is Higuera near the Creamery, though likely without the added barrier. There are some challenges with this option (mainly having enough room for the Fire ladder truck), but it is something we can look into further. Thanks, Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:21 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks Scott. This helps a lot. I’m still a little confused by the last item though….what is the sentiment around moving the bike lane to the curb? Does this mean they favor parking closer to the traffic with the bikelane at the curb, as it is on Marsh Street? Thanks. From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, October 27, 2025 8:53 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Good Morning, Michelle, Staff provided the following additional information on the highlighted items: Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Recent input from delivery drivers is that there are certain loading zones that are more challenging for them to maneuver, while there are other locations they have indicated would be helpful for a loading zone to exist. These are considerations staff will review, evaluate, and discuss with adjacent businesses to see if there are opportunities to shift what we currently have. Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups. 2  This is referring to conversation that businesses can have directly with the delivery drivers to encourage/request that they deliver by certain times, request that they use loading zones, consider providing a key for drivers to deliver without on-site staff. Potential bike lane modifications moving the bike lane to the curb  Staff could evaluate transitioning the bike lane to the curbside for the duration of commercial loading zones, or further. This concept was discussed as an alternative prior to the current design, but was not the preferred design at that time. Please let me know if you have further questions. Thanks! -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 3:27 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi there, No need to respond to this now, over the weekend. But, I am highlighting the areas that are less clear to me and I could use some clarification when possible. Thanks! Michelle From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading Zone update BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience. 3  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already.  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year)  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers.  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. 4 Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Shoresman, Michelle Sent:Tuesday, October 28, 2025 5:03 PM To:Collins, Scott Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks. If we get serious about entertaining something like this, would it first go to the ATC and would it come to council? From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:26 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi Michelle, That was staff’s attempt to find a way to address the commercial loading – bike lane conflicts…not necessarily something that was recommended or brought forward by businesses or DSLO. That option would mean the bike lane would be at the curb like it is Higuera near the Creamery, though likely without the added barrier. There are some challenges with this option (mainly having enough room for the Fire ladder truck), but it is something we can look into further. Thanks, Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:21 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks Scott. This helps a lot. I’m still a little confused by the last item though….what is the sentiment around moving the bike lane to the curb? Does this mean they favor parking closer to the traffic with the bikelane at the curb, as it is on Marsh Street? Thanks. From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, October 27, 2025 8:53 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Good Morning, Michelle, 2 Staff provided the following additional information on the highlighted items: Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Recent input from delivery drivers is that there are certain loading zones that are more challenging for them to maneuver, while there are other locations they have indicated would be helpful for a loading zone to exist. These are considerations staff will review, evaluate, and discuss with adjacent businesses to see if there are opportunities to shift what we currently have. Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  This is referring to conversation that businesses can have directly with the delivery drivers to encourage/request that they deliver by certain times, request that they use loading zones, consider providing a key for drivers to deliver without on-site staff. Potential bike lane modifications moving the bike lane to the curb  Staff could evaluate transitioning the bike lane to the curbside for the duration of commercial loading zones, or further. This concept was discussed as an alternative prior to the current design, but was not the preferred design at that time. Please let me know if you have further questions. Thanks! -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 3:27 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi there, No need to respond to this now, over the weekend. But, I am highlighting the areas that are less clear to me and I could use some clarification when possible. Thanks! Michelle From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading Zone update BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input 3 from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience.  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already.  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year)  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers.  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). 4 The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Collins, Scott Sent:Tuesday, October 28, 2025 7:04 PM To:Shoresman, Michelle Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Commercial Loading Zone update City staff’s plan to address commercial loading issues, as proposed to DSLO, is to first work on the items that do not require Council review and/or money. Modifications to street design/bike lanes falls into the bucket that would require Council review. Council would need to provide direction to work on something like this. In providing direction to bring something back to Council, City Council could direct staff to take it to ATC as part of the process. Of course, this brings into play the existing City Goals and accompanying work plan items. Not sure when Public Works staff can get to this, unless we move some existing work plan items down the road to take this on. Happy to talk about the details with you. Thanks, Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 5:03 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks. If we get serious about entertaining something like this, would it first go to the ATC and would it come to council? From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:26 PM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi Michelle, That was staff’s attempt to find a way to address the commercial loading – bike lane conflicts…not necessarily something that was recommended or brought forward by businesses or DSLO. That option would mean the bike lane would be at the curb like it is Higuera near the Creamery, though likely without the added barrier. There are some challenges with this option (mainly having enough room for the Fire ladder truck), but it is something we can look into further. Thanks, Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 4:21 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney 2 <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Thanks Scott. This helps a lot. I’m still a little confused by the last item though….what is the sentiment around moving the bike lane to the curb? Does this mean they favor parking closer to the traffic with the bikelane at the curb, as it is on Marsh Street? Thanks. From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, October 27, 2025 8:53 AM To: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Good Morning, Michelle, Staff provided the following additional information on the highlighted items: Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Recent input from delivery drivers is that there are certain loading zones that are more challenging for them to maneuver, while there are other locations they have indicated would be helpful for a loading zone to exist. These are considerations staff will review, evaluate, and discuss with adjacent businesses to see if there are opportunities to shift what we currently have. Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  This is referring to conversation that businesses can have directly with the delivery drivers to encourage/request that they deliver by certain times, request that they use loading zones, consider providing a key for drivers to deliver without on-site staff. Potential bike lane modifications moving the bike lane to the curb  Staff could evaluate transitioning the bike lane to the curbside for the duration of commercial loading zones, or further. This concept was discussed as an alternative prior to the current design, but was not the preferred design at that time. Please let me know if you have further questions. Thanks! -Scott From: Shoresman, Michelle <mshoresm@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 3:27 PM To: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Commercial Loading Zone update Hi there, No need to respond to this now, over the weekend. But, I am highlighting the areas that are less clear to me and I could use some clarification when possible. Thanks! 3 Michelle From: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Sent: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1:07 PM Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Commercial Loading Zone update BCC All City Council Good afternoon, Mayor and City Councilmembers, Another parking email for you! Below is an overview of the work underway to address commercial loading zone issues on Higuera Street. Over the past month, parking and administration staff have met multiple times with Downtown SLO representatives, business owners, and delivery company drivers/managers to develop a shared understanding of the issues. We also spent significant time observing conditions in real time, especially on the 700 block of Higuera, and gathered input from our Parking Enforcement Officers. Taken together, this has provided a clear picture of both the challenges and potential solutions. Last week, staff presented our findings and proposed next steps to Downtown SLO, business owners, and delivery reps (see attached presentation). A summary of that discussion is included below: Key Findings  Large semi-trucks (e.g., Sysco) often avoid commercial loading zones due to tree limb clearance issues, concerns related to crossing the bike lane, and insufficient maneuvering space.  Box trucks (e.g., UPS, FedEx) regularly use commercial loading zones when available. If occupied, they often stop in the travel lane.  Frequent violations occur when non-permitted vehicles park in commercial loading zones for convenience.  Some commercial permit holders use the zones for extended periods, reducing turnover for delivery vehicles.  Delivery activity has significantly increased with the rise of same-day expectations for businesses and consumers. Solutions Approach We shared the following solutions approach with the group: 1. Start with low-cost, low-barrier actions and evaluate results over time. 2. The goal is meaningful improvement, not perfection, such as fewer trucks stopping in the travel lane. 3. If further action is needed, then assess more complex options, ensuring clarity on trade-offs, community engagement, and Council review. There was strong consensus that these immediate actions should be taken. Immediate Actions (in progress)  Tree trimming Downtown is underway and will conclude in November, creating at least 20 feet of clearance for trucks in almost all cases (tree trunks impede access for trucks in a few places, and only tree removal will address those few cases. That is not something staff would recommend doing).  Education and targeted enforcement of commercial loading zone rules. Early observations suggest improvements already.  Reallocation of commercial loading zones to better align locations with delivery needs, while minimizing loss of paid parking spaces.  Business-delivery coordination to increase use of commercial loading zones for deliveries and pickups.  Expanded early-morning delivery where feasible, including businesses providing keys or other access solutions. Mid-Term Action (approx. 6 months - 1 year) 4  Explore allowing commercial permit holders to use paid parking spaces for loading activities. This would require Council review, updated technology, and refinements to enforcement. Earliest potential Council consideration: mid-2026. Long-Term Actions (1–3+ years)  Evaluate delivery time restrictions. There is mixed sentiment — benefits for congestion, but operational challenges remain for delivery providers.  Potential bike lane modifications (e.g., relocating to curb or bike lane removal). Several stakeholders supported the idea of moving the bike lane to the curb or removing it entirely. We explained that any bike-lane modifications would be a multi-year process requiring extensive community outreach and a full advisory body and Council review. This topic generated the most debate. A number of business owners and DSLO representatives believe the bike lane is a primary cause of commercial loading challenges and broader economic impacts Downtown. We shared a different perspective, including the City’s goals for installing the facility: improving safety for people walking and biking, supporting economic vitality, and connecting Downtown to the regional bike network. We also provided safety data on current performance (see final pages of the attached presentation). The conversation was respectful but emotional. Some participants would like to see changes like these immediately. Staff emphasized that this would be a very difficult community conversation and is not something we intend to pursue at this time, at least not until the other near-term solutions are implemented and evaluated. This is part of a broader ongoing discussion in the Downtown community, and we know you have already been hearing from constituents on this topic. City staff, Downtown stakeholders, and delivery partners are working collaboratively on this issue. We expect improved commercial loading zone performance over time, reducing congestion and better supporting Downtown operations. We will keep you updated as progress continues. Lastly, I want to recognize the Mobility/Parking Team. They have been outstanding in their responsiveness, creativity, and partnership throughout this effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Scott Scott Collins pronouns he/him/his Assistant City Manager City Administration E SCollins@slocity.org T 805.781.7266 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 Wooten, Eric From:Collins, Scott Sent:Tuesday, November 18, 2025 4:33 PM To:King, Donna; Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer Subject:RE: Enforcement Downtown Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Completed Sorry a few other questions. Have we tracked this type of data in the past? If so, how do these numbers compare to past months? If not data is available, can you provide your professional guess as to how many of these we issue in the past prior to this new concerted effort? Thanks, Scott From: Collins, Scott Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 4:31 PM To: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Enforcement Downtown Hi Donna, Quick follow up question on the violations data below. Can you provide a bit more info here? It says there has been a total of 719 violations since Sept. 1, and offers that 129 were warnings and 121 involved repeat offenders. What were the other 400+ violations? Does that mean the other 400+ were first time offenders who received a citation? Thanks! -Scott From: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Sent: Friday, November 14, 2025 7:49 AM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Enforcement Downtown Thank you, Aaron! Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 2 From: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2025 4:04 PM To: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Enforcement Downtown Hi Donna, I highlighted the sections below – the same areas of the MC you had pointed to. An update to the MC takes a bit of time so probably not as effective as we need. Your recommended strategy: “We will continue citing any vehicle, passenger or commercial, permitted or not, if it is parked in a loading zone for more than 8 minutes without active loading/unloading or for exceeding the 30-minute maximum” will serve to get at the same end. We don’t want a commercial pickup truck to park in the Comm Loading Zones, but if we ticket them, per MC, if they are there for the 8 minutes or 30 max – people will get the message that they can’t park there. Let’s continue to enforce as you recommended, monitor the stats – especially after the new PCO is added, and hopefully we will see greater compliance. Thanks for asking for the clarification and for providing the CVC and MC as background along with your reccomendation – good staff work! -Aaron From: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2025 3:39 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Enforcement Downtown Hi Aaron, Thank you for the direction on commercial zones downtown. The Parking Compliance team has already been conducting targeted enforcement in commercial loading zones as they are available. We just finished interviews to fill a vacant full-time PCO position. We expect to have the position filled within a few weeks and we plan to dedicate someone to commercial loading zones as soon as the position is filled. Below is a summary of activity to date: Commercial Loading Zone (CLZ) Violations  September: 286  October: 286  Nov 1–11: 147 Total: 719 Of these (Sept 1–Nov 11), 129 were warnings and 121 involved repeat offenders who received citations. Officers have been instructed to issue a warning for first-time violations by commercial permit holders, and to cite both passenger vehicles without permits and any repeat violators (with or without permits). Common violations by permit holders include:  No active loading/unloading for more than 8 minutes  Missing or improper vehicle signage required under the SLOMC and permit conditions  Parking longer than the 30-minute limit I have a follow-up question regarding your comment on including contractor vehicles without proper permits. This may be something for the CAO, so please let me know if you’d like me to reach out. Below are the relevant code sections: 3 SLOMC 10.44.030(B): The loading or unloading of materials shall be allowed only for those deliveries made by commercially registered and licensed vehicles or professionally signed passenger vehicles displaying an authorized commercial loading zone permit that is used for commercial business deliveries ; also, the delivery or pickup of express and parcel post packages and United States mail. The loading or unloading of materials shall not extend beyond the time necessary therefor and in no event for more than thirty minutes. Evidence that there was no activity involving the loading or unloading of materials into or from a vehicle during any continuous period of time of eight minutes or longer shall constitute prima facie evidence that the vehicle was parked longer than the time necessary for loading or unloading. The council may, by resolution, temporarily extend the time for unloading and loading of materials at select locations when it is deemed in the best interest of the public due to temporary conditions such as construction, street or public parking lot closures. CVC 260: Provides the definition of a “commercial vehicle,” (a) A “commercial vehicle” is a motor vehicle of a type required to be registered under this code used or maintained for the transportation of persons for hire, compensation, or profit or designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property. (b) Passenger vehicles and house cars that are not used for the transportation of persons for hire, compensation, or profit are not commercial vehicles. Pickup trucks that are not used for the transportation of property for hire, compensation, or profit are not commercial vehicles. This subdivision does not apply to Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3. (c) Any A vanpool vehicle is not a commercial vehicle. (d) The definition of a commercial vehicle in this section does not apply to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 15200) of Division 6. Based on the language in the SLOMC, it appears we cannot require permits for commercially registered vehicles (e.g., pickup trucks with commercial plates), and historically we have not done so. We will continue citing any vehicle, passenger or commercial, permitted or not, if it is parked in a loading zone for more than 8 minutes without active loading/unloading or for exceeding the 30-minute maximum. Can you share your thoughts on whether you would like us to revise our current policy or pursue a potential update to the municipal code to remove pick-up trucks with commercial plates from using commercial loading zones? Thank you for your guidance. Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, November 10, 2025 3:00 PM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org> Subject: Enforcement Downtown 4 Hello Jennifer and Donna. I had a conversation with Scott about parking in commercial zones downtown and we landed on a strategy that I’m hoping you can make happen. From now until the end of the year, can you please ensure that we have a parking enforcement o Ưicer focusing on the downtown area. Specifically the Higuera, marsh, and Monterey area. The intent is to focus on the commercial loading zones and the repeated issues we have seen at these locations. This would include enforcement on contractor’s vehicles without proper permits and private vehicles that are commercially registered due to their vehicle weight (like a ¾ tone pickup). Please ensure that we are also able to get some statistics on this enhanced level of enforcement as well. Thanks in advance for the work on this and reach out with questions. Aaron 5 Get Outlook for iOS From: Kathy Freeman Godfrey <kfreeman@kathyfreemanco.com> Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 4:42:06 PM To: McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Cc: LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Subject: Parking Again...... Hi Whitney I neede to share briefly my very negative parking experience yesterday to highlight that the parking enforcement people here in SLO have a punitive attitude which is so unattractive, people don’t want to come downtown to shop. I was standing outside the pick up door on Monterey waiting for products to be brought down from Pottery Barn. They instruct you were to park and ring the bell and wait and they’ll bring down your items. I was there with a lovely couple from Paso who had come into SLO to shop. This parking enforcement woman walks by and says to the couple – you are parked in a commercial loading zone and eligible for a ticket. They rightly said – this is where pottery barn tells you to park to pick up your goods. The parking gal didn’t care --- She doubles down and says well then that is for opening your car loading your bags and leaving – and you’re still standing here. I joined the conversation at that point and said we are waiting for our things to be brought down. We were told and the sign says – park here for pottery barn pick up – She reinforced her stance on no parking there in a commercial loading zone – and we were standing next to our cars. It was five o clock and no one was doing deliveries anyway. This couple proceeded to share frustrations w/ SLO parking and how there are no issues up in Paso. It begs the question…. Will they want to come down to SLO CITY again with that treatment? I’ll suggest to you that couple easily paid slo city taxes on well over 1000 dollars of merchandise based on what was loaded into their very nice car. The city has got to figure out a way to reel in these enforcement people to be ambassadors who give people the benefit of the doubt – and at the very least not to pick fights with shoppers during the holidays. That’s only common sense. Thanks Whitney for figuring out where to send this and what can be done. All my best Kathy 6 Kathy Freeman Godfrey | Founder - CEO --- Kathy Freeman Company 805.542.0800 | kathyfreemanco.com 963 Broad St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 RETAINED EXECUTIVE SEARCH FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES Confidentiality Notice: The electronic mail and/or documents accompanying this transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender which is legally privileged. The information is intended only for the individual(s) or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please immediately notify us by telephone at the number above to arrange for return or to destroy the original document. 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Tuesday, January 27, 2026 2:31 PM To:Tres Feltman Cc:Marx, Jan; Collins, Scott; Rice, Jennifer; Floyd, Aaron; Taffe, McKenzie; reachus@downtownslo.org; King, Donna; Brocco, Christine Subject:RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Hello Tres, Thank you for taking the Ɵme to share your observaƟons. I know this is an issue you and others downtown—including Hands Gallery—have raised previously, and I understand how frustraƟng it is to conƟnue seeing the same behavior occur. We understand your concern that delivery trucks someƟmes park in travel lanes even when nearby commercial loading zones are available. With the current downtown street configuraƟon—where alleys and alternate side streets for deliveries are limited— commercial loading zones are criƟcal for businesses to receive deliveries safely and efficiently. While reverƟng these zones back to regular parking might seem like a simple soluƟon, removing them would leave delivery trucks with fewer safe opƟons to load, which could actually worsen congesƟon and impact businesses. Our approach has been to encourage delivery drivers to use loading zones whenever possible through outreach, while also monitoring personal vehicles that block these spaces. From an enforcement standpoint, the City can cite vehicles when violaƟons occur, parƟcularly when a vehicle is blocking a travel lane. However, enforcement alone is not always an effecƟve deterrent for large commercial delivery vehicles, as citaƟon costs are oŌen absorbed as part of normal business operaƟons. Where enforcement has been more effecƟve is addressing personal vehicles that illegally occupy commercial loading zones, which directly prevents delivery trucks from accessing the curb. Our enforcement officers have also been mindful of Loading Zone permit holders, such as business owners, who are allowed to park for a limited period to load in and out of their business. When these permit holders remain in the loading zones beyond the allowed Ɵme, staff are currently issuing warnings, as we aim to be supporƟve partners to downtown businesses while keeping curb space available for others. Physical access to some loading zones has also been a factor. In certain locaƟons, low-hanging tree limbs make it difficult for larger delivery trucks to safely pull in without risking vehicle or tree damage. To address this, our Public Works team has been conducƟng targeted tree trimming throughout downtown, with a focus on improving clearance at commercial loading zones. Because these issues are interconnected, the City is taking a coordinated approach that includes enforcement, con Ɵnued communicaƟon with delivery companies to encourage use of loading zones and earlier deliveries where possible, and operaƟonal improvements such as tree trimming and evaluaƟng loading zone placement. Our goal is to ensure that downtown businesses can operate efficiently, serve the community, and remain successful, while also providing a safe and welcoming experience for customers and visitors. Achieving that balance can be challenging, but it is a priority for the City. We appreciate you conƟnuing to raise this concern and staying engaged in the conversaƟon. Your feedback helps guide our efforts to improve downtown circulaƟon and access. The City regularly parƟcipates in the Downtown SLO Impact CommiƩee to hear feedback from downtown businesses and provide updates on ongoing efforts. I would also encourage you to join the commiƩee anyƟme or reach out to me directly if you would like to set up a separate mee Ɵng with me and our parking staff. Bests, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org -----Original Message----- 2 From: Marx, Jan <jmarx@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 9:24 AM To: Tres Feltman < Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Thank you for your thoughƞul message. I share your concerns about "running the gauntlet" of delivery trucks on Higuera. I am including Public Works staff in this response, so they can get back to you regarding this important issue. Best wishes Jan -----Original Message----- From: Tres Feltman < Sent: Monday, January 26, 2026 1:05 PM To: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org> Cc: Taffe, McKenzie <mctaffe@slocity.org>; reachus@downtownslo.org Subject: Downtown commercial zone parking So, I was just downtown and as usual Higuera was backed up because delivery trucks were parked in traffic lanes to make deliveries. I noƟced that both trucks parked in traffic lanes were right next to or within a 1/2 block of our commercial loading zones that were empty. If the city is not going to require delivery drivers to use commercial loading zones then the city should revert those commercial zones back to regular parking. You would create more parking spaces for customers that want to come downtown and receive addiƟonal parking revenue. The delivery trucks will conƟnue to block traffic lanes because it is easier for them. Obviously the city only enforces it’s parking laws on it’s ciƟzens and not on the delivery trucks. It’s not fair and is bad for downtown businesses. Tres Feltman Owner 777 Higuera 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Tuesday, January 27, 2026 4:43 PM To:McDonald, Whitney Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna Subject:Downtown Commercial Loading Zone Parking - Awareness Attachments:RE: Downtown commercial zone parking BCC: City Council All Hello Whitney, I wanted to share the attached response we recently sent to a downtown business owner. The email summarizes the City’s current approach related to delivery activity and the use of commercial loading zones. This is being provided for awareness only, as this issue continues to surface among downtown stakeholders. Please let me know if you’d like additional context or if it would be helpful to address this in another forum. Bests, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Tuesday, January 27, 2026 2:31 PM To:Tres Feltman Cc:Marx, Jan; Collins, Scott; Rice, Jennifer; Floyd, Aaron; Taffe, McKenzie; reachus@downtownslo.org; King, Donna; Brocco, Christine Subject:RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Hello Tres, Thank you for taking the Ɵme to share your observaƟons. I know this is an issue you and others downtown—including Hands Gallery—have raised previously, and I understand how frustraƟng it is to conƟnue seeing the same behavior occur. We understand your concern that delivery trucks someƟmes park in travel lanes even when nearby commercial loading zones are available. With the current downtown street configuraƟon—where alleys and alternate side streets for deliveries are limited— commercial loading zones are criƟcal for businesses to receive deliveries safely and efficiently. While reverƟng these zones back to regular parking might seem like a simple soluƟon, removing them would leave delivery trucks with fewer safe opƟons to load, which could actually worsen congesƟon and impact businesses. Our approach has been to encourage delivery drivers to use loading zones whenever possible through outreach, while also monitoring personal vehicles that block these spaces. From an enforcement standpoint, the City can cite vehicles when violaƟons occur, parƟcularly when a vehicle is blocking a travel lane. However, enforcement alone is not always an effecƟve deterrent for large commercial delivery vehicles, as citaƟon costs are oŌen absorbed as part of normal business operaƟons. Where enforcement has been more effecƟve is addressing personal vehicles that illegally occupy commercial loading zones, which directly prevents delivery trucks from accessing the curb. Our enforcement officers have also been mindful of Loading Zone permit holders, such as business owners, who are allowed to park for a limited period to load in and out of their business. When these permit holders remain in the loading zones beyond the allowed Ɵme, staff are currently issuing warnings, as we aim to be supporƟve partners to downtown businesses while keeping curb space available for others. Physical access to some loading zones has also been a factor. In certain locaƟons, low-hanging tree limbs make it difficult for larger delivery trucks to safely pull in without risking vehicle or tree damage. To address this, our Public Works team has been conducƟng targeted tree trimming throughout downtown, with a focus on improving clearance at commercial loading zones. Because these issues are interconnected, the City is taking a coordinated approach that includes enforcement, con Ɵnued communicaƟon with delivery companies to encourage use of loading zones and earlier deliveries where possible, and operaƟonal improvements such as tree trimming and evaluaƟng loading zone placement. Our goal is to ensure that downtown businesses can operate efficiently, serve the community, and remain successful, while also providing a safe and welcoming experience for customers and visitors. Achieving that balance can be challenging, but it is a priority for the City. We appreciate you conƟnuing to raise this concern and staying engaged in the conversaƟon. Your feedback helps guide our efforts to improve downtown circulaƟon and access. The City regularly parƟcipates in the Downtown SLO Impact CommiƩee to hear feedback from downtown businesses and provide updates on ongoing efforts. I would also encourage you to join the commiƩee anyƟme or reach out to me directly if you would like to set up a separate mee Ɵng with me and our parking staff. Bests, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org -----Original Message----- 2 From: Marx, Jan <jmarx@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 9:24 AM To: Tres Feltman < Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Thank you for your thoughƞul message. I share your concerns about "running the gauntlet" of delivery trucks on Higuera. I am including Public Works staff in this response, so they can get back to you regarding this important issue. Best wishes Jan -----Original Message----- From: Tres Feltman < Sent: Monday, January 26, 2026 1:05 PM To: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org> Cc: Taffe, McKenzie <mctaffe@slocity.org>; reachus@downtownslo.org Subject: Downtown commercial zone parking So, I was just downtown and as usual Higuera was backed up because delivery trucks were parked in traffic lanes to make deliveries. I noƟced that both trucks parked in traffic lanes were right next to or within a 1/2 block of our commercial loading zones that were empty. If the city is not going to require delivery drivers to use commercial loading zones then the city should revert those commercial zones back to regular parking. You would create more parking spaces for customers that want to come downtown and receive addiƟonal parking revenue. The delivery trucks will conƟnue to block traffic lanes because it is easier for them. Obviously the city only enforces it’s parking laws on it’s ciƟzens and not on the delivery trucks. It’s not fair and is bad for downtown businesses. Tres Feltman Owner 777 Higuera 1 From:Rice, Jennifer Sent:Tuesday, January 27, 2026 11:04 AM To:King, Donna; Kacsinta, Madeline Subject:RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Thanks Donna, Just to provide a bit more context, the City can use enforcement when that CVC is violated (for example trapping other vehicles – and this does occur downtown). The challenge with using enforcement (and Donna can share more experience on this) is that these large delivery companies would rather pay citation fees and deliver their product, than comply but risk a delay in their delivery. So, the financial “burden” of a citation is often budgeted into their normal business operations, and not an effective compliance tool. Where our Parking team has seen enforcement being more effective – is on those personal vehicles who have been using the commercial loading zones illegally, but because of their use are essentially blocking other delivery trucks from the space. This is the compliance piece that our team has been focusing on. As you can tell – all of the pieces relate to one another. If a large truck pulls up and the commercial zone is blocked by a personal vehicle, the delivery truck will stage in the traffic lane. Once they are unloading – they don’t move, even if the personal car drives away a few minutes later. Thanks, Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 11:02 AM To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Hi Madeline, We cannot cite delivery trucks for stopping in the traffic lane. I sent the below message to Scott yesterday for the same question. I believe he shared this with DTSLO during a meeting yesterday afternoon. Under CVC §22502, commercial vehicles are allowed to stop more than 18 inches from the curb (in a traffic lane) when necessary for loading or unloading, as long as the stop is reasonable and does not unnecessarily obstruct traffic. They should not be blocking driveways, trapping other vehicles, or creating unsafe conditions. On a two-lane one-way street, traffic is still able to move around a properly positioned truck, which keeps the situation compliant. We do encourage drivers to use a yellow loading zone whenever possible, but some trucks are simply too large to fit safely within those spaces. 2 CVC 22502. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a vehicle stopped or parked upon a roadway with adjacent curbs or class IV bikeways, as defined in Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code, shall be stopped or parked with the right-hand wheels of the vehicle parallel to, and within 18 inches of, the right-hand curb or the right-hand edge of the class IV bikeway, except that a motorcycle shall be parked with at least one wheel or fender touching the right-hand curb or edge. If no curbs, barriers, or class IV bikeways bound a two- way roadway, right-hand parallel parking is required unless otherwise indicated. (b) (1) The provisions of subdivision (a) or (e) do not apply to a commercial vehicle if a variation from the requirements of subdivision (a) or (e) is reasonably necessary to accomplish the loading or unloading of merchandise or passengers on, or from, a vehicle and while anything connected with the loading, or unloading, is being executed. Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 10:52 AM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking Thanks, Jenn! CAN we ticket delivery trucks? I seems to remember there being something that allowed for this in the vehicle code – Just making sure it doesn’t seem like we are turning a blind eye. Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 10:44 AM To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking 3 Hi Madeline, Here is a draft response (this was previously sent to a member of the public on this same subject): Thank you for taking the time to reach out and share your experience visiting downtown San Luis Obispo. Your message is very timely as our team has been observing similar issues and hearing related concerns from other downtown visitors and business owners. We’ve also noticed that some delivery vehicles are using the travel lane for loading instead of the designated commercial loading zones, even when space is available. City staff has been working closely with Downtown SLO, an organization representing the downtown community, to identify effective ways to address this behavior. One of our first steps has been to better educate and connect directly with delivery drivers, which has included an increase of enforcement. Your feedback reinforces that this outreach remains an ongoing and important effort. Additionally, our team is reviewing the placement of loading zones and trimming nearby tree limbs to make it easier for larger delivery vehicles to safely access the curb. Thank you again for taking the time to share your perspective. We truly appreciate your input, and we hope your next visit to downtown SLO is a more enjoyable one. Sincerely, Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications -----Original Message----- From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 9:58 AM To: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown commercial zone parking Hi Jenn and Donna, Can you assist with a response and send back to me? Thank you! Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org -----Original Message----- From: Marx, Jan <jmarx@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 9:24 AM To: Tres Feltman < Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown commercial zone parking 4 Thank you for your thoughƞul message. I share your concerns about "running the gauntlet" of delivery trucks on Higuera. I am including Public Works staff in this response, so they can get back to you regarding this important issue. Best wishes Jan -----Original Message----- From: Tres Feltman < Sent: Monday, January 26, 2026 1:05 PM To: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org> Cc: Taffe, McKenzie <mctaffe@slocity.org>; reachus@downtownslo.org Subject: Downtown commercial zone parking So, I was just downtown and as usual Higuera was backed up because delivery trucks were parked in traffic lanes to make deliveries. I noƟced that both trucks parked in traffic lanes were right next to or within a 1/2 block of our commercial loa ding zones that were empty. If the city is not going to require delivery drivers to use commercial loading zones then the city should revert those commercial zones back to regular parking. You would create more parking spaces for customers that want to come downtown and receive addiƟonal parking revenue. The delivery trucks will conƟnue to block traffic lanes because it is easier for them. Obviously the city only enforces it’s parking laws on it’s ciƟzens and not on the delivery trucks. It’s not fair and is bad for downtown businesses. Tres Feltman Owner 777 Higuera 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Wednesday, February 11, 2026 8:31 PM To:Boswell, Mike Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; McDonald, Whitney Subject:RE: Downtown Commercial Loading Zone Parking - Awareness Dear Councilmember Boswell, Thank you for sending this along, it’s helpful to see how other cities are approaching curb management. From our observations downtown, loading activity is generally heaviest in the morning. Many delivery drivers, particularly those operating regional routes, aim to complete their downtown stops before late morning (often before 11:00 a.m.), which aligns with standard freight patterns. While the volume of deliveries is higher earlier in the day, operational impacts can be more noticeable later on. As businesses open and on-street parking fills, available curb space becomes limited. When a delivery vehicle occupies a loading space for an extended period, or cannot fully access a designated zone, it can result in double-parking or blocked travel lanes. In terms of vehicle type, larger 18-wheelers typically need more room to maneuver and may be on-site longer due to palletized or bulk deliveries. Smaller delivery vans are generally quicker per stop and more flexible in tighter spaces, though they tend to make more frequent trips. Regarding automation, current California Vehicle Code requirements do not allow citations to be issued unless an officer physically places the notice on the vehicle, so fully automated ticketing is not permissible under existing law. That said, technology that helps monitor curb activity or alert parking staff in real time is something we would be interested in evaluating, funding permitting as part of future financial plans. As tools evolve, and if state law changes, we would certainly want to explore options that improve compliance and reduce traffic impacts. Thank you again for sending over examples from other cities, it is always appreciated when ideas are shared that might help us improve operations. Bests, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Boswell, Mike <MBoswell@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 3:21 PM To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>; McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna 2 <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zone Parking - Awareness Madeline: Thanks for the thoughtful response back to the business owner. I recently spent some time trying to read up on urban loading zone issues. Not surprisingly, many cities struggle with this issue. On a positive note, it is usually the sign of a very economically robust downtown! I ran across an idea I thought I'd share: City of Pittsburgh's (PA) "Smart Loading Zones." I thought it was interesting that they allow free loading for 15 minutes then drivers must register and pay. They also use automated enforcement. It got me wondering if automated enforcement could be used for trucks in the travel lane or perhaps just a notice could be sent to our parking team to respond. https://engage.pittsburghpa.gov/smart-loading-zones Do we know when loading demand is highest? AM or PM? Is there a difference in time demand between the large 18-wheeler trucks and smaller delivery vans? Mike Mike Boswell Council Member Office of the City Council E MBoswell@slocity.org C 805.748.8178 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 4:42 PM To: McDonald, Whitney <WMcDonal@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Commercial Loading Zone Parking - Awareness BCC: City Council All Hello Whitney, I wanted to share the attached response we recently sent to a downtown business owner. The email summarizes the City’s current approach related to delivery activity and the use of commercial loading zones. This is being provided for awareness only, as this issue continues to surface among downtown stakeholders. Please let me know if you’d like additional context or if it would be helpful to address this in another forum. 3 Bests, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Tuesday, April 28, 2026 5:56 PM To:Hermann, Greg Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; Fiedler, Laura; Taffe, McKenzie Subject:RE: Loading Zones Great! Thank you for being another support on this. I am going to put together an agenda for our meeting next Monday and will share it so that you can add to it as you see fit. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 4:09 PM To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org>; Taffe, McKenzie <mctaffe@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Loading Zones Hi Madeline, Thanks so much for sending this. It’s very helpful and I’m looping in Laura and McKenzie for awareness. I’m happy to reiterate the message when I chat with Pat. My conversation with him will be more focused on DSLO’s position related to bike lanes and trying to guide them away from discussions about removing them as I don’t believe that’s productive for anyone. The two are obviously connected and my hope is that work we can do to address the loading zone issues can also keep the bike lane issue at bay. Greg From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 12:55 PM To: Hermann, Greg <GHermann@slocity.org> Cc: Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Loading Zones Hi Greg, 2 Ahead of your meeting with the DTSLO Board later today, I wanted to make sure we’re aligned on how we’re communicating our approach and progress on commercial loading. We’ve taken several steps to address current challenges and improve how these spaces function:  Completed trimming of tree limbs that were encroaching into curb space and limiting truck access to designated loading zones.  Provided clear communication to all Commercial Loading Zone (CLZ) permit applicants in October outlining program requirements.  Continuing education efforts, including a reminder email to permit holders about proper display requirements that is currently in draft and will be sent out shortly. I’ll also be coordinating with the team on short-term educational flyers that can be handed out in the field as issues are observed with permit holders.  Ongoing targeted enforcement of CLZ spaces to reinforce compliance.  Downtown SLO and the City have conducted outreach with business owners and frequent delivery vendors, encouraging use of designated loading zones and promoting earlier delivery times where feasible. Looking ahead, we’re now focused on optimizing curb space allocation:  We’ve completed a downtown loading zone inventory and developed a set of staff recommendations for the 700 block of Higuera as a pilot installation, which we’re aiming to present next week to DTSLO.  We anticipate a period of adjustment as changes are implemented.  As part of that pilot, staff will be out in the field engaging directly with businesses on that block—walking through the changes, setting expectations, and reinforcing that this is a flexible, iterative process.  We are also working to establish metrics so we can track and demonstrate changes over time—helping us evaluate whether we’re seeing improvements (or identifying where adjustments are needed).  We are also developing a broader downtown survey in coordination with Downtown SLO, with support from our GIS division, to better understand loading needs and patterns across the full downtown area. Overall, the message we’re aiming to convey is that the City is listening, taking action, and committed to working collaboratively with the downtown community to refine these solutions over time. Let me know if you want to connect briefly before your meeting. Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Tuesday, April 28, 2026 10:28 AM To:King, Donna Cc:Rice, Jennifer; Brocco, Christine Subject:Loading Zones Hi Donna, There have been a lot of conversations with Downtown SLO about Commercial Loading Zones this week, and Greg Hermann is meeting with their board later today. I am hoping to get him some talking points for his meeting and also wanted to connect with you on some of these items. Since we need to get him something quickly—before 1pm today—can you please review the draft below and make any corrections or modifications as needed? I’d also like to connect afterward so we can make sure we are fully aligned ahead of next week’s meeting. I am going to CC Kelly to get something on our calendars for this week. THANK YOU! Hi Greg, Ahead of your meeting with the DTSLO Board later today, I wanted to make sure we’re aligned on how we’re communicating our approach and progress on commercial loading. We’ve taken several steps to address current challenges and improve how these spaces function:  Completed trimming of tree limbs that were encroaching into curb space and limiting truck access to designated loading zones.  Provided clear communication to all Commercial Loading Zone (CLZ) permit applicants in October outlining program requirements.  Continuing education efforts, including a reminder email to permit holders about proper display requirements that is currently in draft and will be sent out shortly. I’ll also be coordinating with the team on short-term educational flyers that can be handed out in the field as issues are observed with permit holders.  Ongoing targeted enforcement of CLZ spaces to reinforce compliance.  Downtown SLO and the City have conducted outreach with business owners and frequent delivery vendors, encouraging use of designated loading zones and promoting earlier delivery times where feasible. Looking ahead, we’re now focused on optimizing curb space allocation:  We’ve completed a downtown loading zone inventory and developed a set of staff recommendations to the 700 block of Higuera as a pilot installation, which are aiming to present next week to DTSLO  We anticipate a period of adjustment as changes are implemented.  As part of that pilot, staff will be out in the field engaging directly with businesses on that block— walking through the changes, setting expectations, and reinforcing that this is a flexible, iterative process. 2  I’m also working with the parking team to establish metrics so we can track and demonstrate changes over time—helping us evaluate whether we’re seeing improvements (or identifying where adjustments are needed). Overall, the message we’re aiming to convey is that the City is listening, taking action, and committed to working collaboratively with the downtown community to refine these solutions over time. Let me know if you want to connect briefly before your meeting. Best, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Sent:Monday, May 4, 2026 4:29 PM To:King, Donna Subject:Fedex Parking on Chorro Street for Market Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Completed Hi Donna! Quick question. I have reached out to Fedex to ask for their help on ensuring their driver does not park on Chorro Street after 5pm on Thursdays. The no parking sign does state 4pm, but I do not believe their is enforcement of this. With that said, the rep from Fedex asked if we are able to "reserve" one of the loading zone lanes on Marsh Street and Chorro for their 5pm pick-up. I was not sure if this could be an option and if so, how it could be accommodated. The issue is when the truck is there, it causes a host of safety issues, block vendor parking and prohibits vendors to set-up with the street is activated. I want to look into what other options there are for Fedex rather than just telling them to move on. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Donna! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 1 From:Sisemore, Paul Sent:Friday, June 26, 2026 6:36 PM To:King, Donna; Koznek, Tim Cc:Rice, Jennifer Subject:RE: Traffic question Good evening. So, the first question regarding commercial vehicles stopped in a lane of travel for loading and unloading. Yes, they are permitted to do so and are exempt per CVC 22502. Per CVC 22106 (unsafe backing), they are still required to back safely, and if they collide with an object while backing or, for that matter, going forward, they would be at fault. If you have any other questions or would like to talk, I am working weekend nights for the remainder of the year. Paul From: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 11:39 AM To: Koznek, Tim <tkoznek@slocity.org>; Sisemore, Paul <psisemor@slocity.org> Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> Subject: Traffic question Hello Sergeants, I’m hoping you can assist me with a traffic enforcement question. If you’re not the right person to ask, would you mind pointing me to the appropriate contact? As you may be aware, there has been ongoing discussion regarding commercial truck loading in downtown San Luis Obispo, particularly on the 700 block of Higuera Street. We have another meeting with Downtown SLO and affected businesses on Tuesday morning to continue that discussion. One of the recurring questions is whether commercial trucks are legally allowed to stop and load while occupying the travel lane, or whether they can be required to use the designated commercial loading zone (CLZ). I am familiar with CVC 22502 and the applicable parking and loading requirements and exemptions. Another question has come up regarding commercial trucks backing up in the travel lane to access a loading space. This issue arose recently when a truck backed up on the 700 block of Higuera while attempting to parallel park in the CLZ and struck a tree. In researching the issue, we found CVC 22106 (Unsafe Backing). Can you let me know if there are any other Vehicle Code sections that specifically address or prohibit commercial trucks, or vehicles in general, from backing up in a travel lane, or any other laws that would apply in this type of situation? I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thank you for your time and assistance. Donna King Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org 2 Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Monday, July 6, 2026 6:24 PM Cc:Department Heads; Cruce, Greg; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; Leon, Jose (Luis); Nelson, Brian; Stephenson, Nemo; Schwartz, Luke Subject:RE: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Attachments:Loading Zone Slides 7.7.26.pdf BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. 2 These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed 3 loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 2Commercial LoadingDTSLO Parking and Access Committee MeetingJuly 7, 2026 3Downtown SLO – How we got here Businesses raise concerns and submit feedback to City of SLOCity of SLO begins monitoring conditions Aug. 2025Oct. 21 – Environmental Committee meets with drivers; reviews potential approaches and staff recommendations Oct. 2025Tree trimming completed throughout the downtown core Nov. 2025May 5 – DTSLO requests expedited installation of pilot prior to June 1 May 27 – Pilot configuration installedMay 2026Commercial trucks frequently load from the travel lane, creating congestion and safety concerns. Loading zones are often unavailable or unsuitable for large trucks. Passenger vehicles sometimes occupy commercial loading zones. Greatest need is on the 700 block of Higuera(secondary: 1000 block). Pilot provides an opportunity to evaluate improvements that support the future Higuera corridor. Initial concerns: 5Understanding Higuera Street TodayCommon Perception'The third lane was removed to install a bike lane.'What people see:• Trucks unloading in travel lanes• Empty loading zones• A bike lane that may appear lightly used✓Clarifying the current road designThe primary purpose of the 2021 redesignwas traffic calming and pedestrian safety-firstproject.The lane reducƟon from 3 → 2 travel lanes:• Reduced vehicle speeds by 27%•Improved pedestrian safety by 50%•Supports the Safety of Downtown Customers•Supports General Plan, Active Transportation, Complete Streets, and Major City goals•The bike lane is one component of the overall safety-focused redesign.•✓Current Challenges•Loading zones may be occupied or difficult for large trucksto access.•Trucks may choose the travel lane when curb loading is notfeasible.•Enforcement is situational and depends on site conditions.•Commercial loading zones often sit unused outside peakdelivery periods.What California Law AllowsPreferred: Commercial loading zone Permitted: Travel lane when ‘reasonably necessary’ Not permitted: Bicycle lane loadingReminder: commercial vehicles may legally load from travel lanes under certain circumstances (CVC Chapter 9, 22502) 6Downtown Loading Zone Improvement - RoadmapTrimmed tree limbs over loading spaces (Nov 2025)Clear communication to all CLZ permit holders (Oct 2025)Loading Zone downtown inventoryCOMPLETED Higuera 700 Block Pilot ProjectOngoing Education for businesses and driversTargeted enforcement in loading zonesEvaluating Additional Improvements (next slide)Evaluate Higuera Street Striping Configuration w/ Emergency Services IN PROGRESS Broader downtown loading zone survey (Early 2027)Restriping loading zones throughout downtown (Spring 2027)Implement any Additional Improvements (Winter 2027)FUTURE(Planned) 7Exploring Additional ImprovementsModification to Traffic Signal TimingInstallation of additional wayfinding signs to Parking GaragesModification to CLZ times (i.e. Vehicles can park after 3pm)TRADE-OFFS3MK1 8CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block BEFORE(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANE 9CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block Pilot Project(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANEPilot based on Field Observations and DT SLO FeedbackBetter turning radius from ChorroLonger loading zones for large trucks (80’ min)Due to SLOMA construction, original pilot location was shifted. Passenger Loading Zones Maintained in front of SLO Brew Lofts and on the South side of the block for smaller vehicles.Commercial vehicles can use Passenger Loading Spaces 10Pilot Project Field Observations & Feedback (so far)Survey Feedback•Pilot survey opened June 23rd•Number of responses: 35 so far•Average rating: 2.85 out of 5•Primary concern:Delivery trucks continue to stop in travellanes instead of using loading zones and curb space remainsvacant during the day.•Enforcementwas the most common recommendation toimprove compliance.•Loss of customer parkingand impacts to downtownbusinesses were frequent concerns.•Some respondents reported improved traffic flow,particularly during delivery periods.•Commercial users generally favored the longer loadingzonesfor larger trucks.•Comments also included broader feedbackon the Higuerabike lanes and downtown street design.•Parking Compliance Officers regularly patrol the area(7-10 times daily) and engage with drivers•When engaged, about 10% of delivery drivers will relocate to a loading zone•Once Tree was hit, Drivers were discouraged from using the loading zone•380 Commercial Loading Zone Violations Issued Monthly 11Next StepsJuly 31Pilot Survey ClosesAugust 4DT SLO MeetingEvaluate Pilot FeedbackSeptember 1DT SLO MeetingPresent draft changesOctoberImplement pilot recommendationsJanuaryDowntown SurveySpring 2027Update all downtown loading curbsContinued Monitoring and Stakeholder Outreach 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Monday, July 6, 2026 6:26 PM Cc:Department Heads; Cruce, Greg; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; Leon, Jose (Luis); Nelson, Brian; Stephenson, Nemo; Schwartz, Luke Subject:FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Attachments:Loading Zone Slides 7.7.26.pdf BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. 2 These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed 3 loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 2Commercial LoadingDTSLO Parking and Access Committee MeetingJuly 7, 2026 3Downtown SLO – How we got here Businesses raise concerns and submit feedback to City of SLOCity of SLO begins monitoring conditions Aug. 2025Oct. 21 – Environmental Committee meets with drivers; reviews potential approaches and staff recommendations Oct. 2025Tree trimming completed throughout the downtown core Nov. 2025May 5 – DTSLO requests expedited installation of pilot prior to June 1 May 27 – Pilot configuration installedMay 2026Commercial trucks frequently load from the travel lane, creating congestion and safety concerns. Loading zones are often unavailable or unsuitable for large trucks. Passenger vehicles sometimes occupy commercial loading zones. Greatest need is on the 700 block of Higuera(secondary: 1000 block). Pilot provides an opportunity to evaluate improvements that support the future Higuera corridor. Initial concerns: 5Understanding Higuera Street TodayCommon Perception'The third lane was removed to install a bike lane.'What people see:• Trucks unloading in travel lanes• Empty loading zones• A bike lane that may appear lightly used✓Clarifying the current road designThe primary purpose of the 2021 redesignwas traffic calming and pedestrian safety-firstproject.The lane reducƟon from 3 → 2 travel lanes:• Reduced vehicle speeds by 27%•Improved pedestrian safety by 50%•Supports the Safety of Downtown Customers•Supports General Plan, Active Transportation, Complete Streets, and Major City goals•The bike lane is one component of the overall safety-focused redesign.•✓Current Challenges•Loading zones may be occupied or difficult for large trucksto access.•Trucks may choose the travel lane when curb loading is notfeasible.•Enforcement is situational and depends on site conditions.•Commercial loading zones often sit unused outside peakdelivery periods.What California Law AllowsPreferred: Commercial loading zone Permitted: Travel lane when ‘reasonably necessary’ Not permitted: Bicycle lane loadingReminder: commercial vehicles may legally load from travel lanes under certain circumstances (CVC Chapter 9, 22502) 6Downtown Loading Zone Improvement - RoadmapTrimmed tree limbs over loading spaces (Nov 2025)Clear communication to all CLZ permit holders (Oct 2025)Loading Zone downtown inventoryCOMPLETED Higuera 700 Block Pilot ProjectOngoing Education for businesses and driversTargeted enforcement in loading zonesEvaluating Additional Improvements (next slide)Evaluate Higuera Street Striping Configuration w/ Emergency Services IN PROGRESS Broader downtown loading zone survey (Early 2027)Restriping loading zones throughout downtown (Spring 2027)Implement any Additional Improvements (Winter 2027)FUTURE(Planned) 7Exploring Additional ImprovementsModification to Traffic Signal TimingInstallation of additional wayfinding signs to Parking GaragesModification to CLZ times (i.e. Vehicles can park after 3pm)TRADE-OFFS3MK1 8CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block BEFORE(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANE 9CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block Pilot Project(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANEPilot based on Field Observations and DT SLO FeedbackBetter turning radius from ChorroLonger loading zones for large trucks (80’ min)Due to SLOMA construction, original pilot location was shifted. Passenger Loading Zones Maintained in front of SLO Brew Lofts and on the South side of the block for smaller vehicles.Commercial vehicles can use Passenger Loading Spaces 10Pilot Project Field Observations & Feedback (so far)Survey Feedback•Pilot survey opened June 23rd•Number of responses: 35 so far•Average rating: 2.85 out of 5•Primary concern:Delivery trucks continue to stop in travellanes instead of using loading zones and curb space remainsvacant during the day.•Enforcementwas the most common recommendation toimprove compliance.•Loss of customer parkingand impacts to downtownbusinesses were frequent concerns.•Some respondents reported improved traffic flow,particularly during delivery periods.•Commercial users generally favored the longer loadingzonesfor larger trucks.•Comments also included broader feedbackon the Higuerabike lanes and downtown street design.•Parking Compliance Officers regularly patrol the area(7-10 times daily) and engage with drivers•When engaged, about 10% of delivery drivers will relocate to a loading zone•Once Tree was hit, Drivers were discouraged from using the loading zone•380 Commercial Loading Zone Violations Issued Monthly 11Next StepsJuly 31Pilot Survey ClosesAugust 4DT SLO MeetingEvaluate Pilot FeedbackSeptember 1DT SLO MeetingPresent draft changesOctoberImplement pilot recommendationsJanuaryDowntown SurveySpring 2027Update all downtown loading curbsContinued Monitoring and Stakeholder Outreach 1 From:Debonis, Michael Sent:Thursday, July 9, 2026 6:28 PM To:Kelley, Angela Cc:King, Donna Subject:End of shift report 7-9-26 Good evening, Today I was stationed on the Loading Zones Route to manage commercial loading zones and passenger loading zones in the downtown area, with a focus on the 700 higuera. While there were much less deliveries today, overall compliance was exceptionally high with zero big rigs observed double-parking, and every large truck successfully utilized the commercial loading zones. Drivers specifically expressed appreciation for the tree- trimming efforts, noting that the cleared canopy made accessing the curb significantly easier. The passenger loading zone on the 700 block of Higuera experienced high turnover and steady, correct utility after 10:00 AM. Routine enforcement passes were conducted throughout the shift—including 15+ checks on the 700 block of Higuera by myself, supplemented by additional coverage from the East Route officer who visited the area. Compliance remained strong. 2 customers had expressed that downtown businesses had told them they can use their passenger vehicles to park in the commercial loading zone if they are parked less than 5 minutes and are doing a delivery. I explained to the customers I had ticketed how the loading zones actually work and proceeded to change the tickets to warnings as they moved to the passenger loading zone upon my request. I figured I would pass this along, though, as there may be some confusion from downtown businesses how the CLZs work. Key Activity Data  Non-commercial vehicles moved from loading zones: 13 resolved via educational dialogue and redirection, 6 CLZ printed warnings (from paystation confusion or voiding cite as I gained compliance), and 2 CLZ citations were written due to no customer being present when I arrived at their vehicle.  Commercial trucks relocated from street (to loading zones): 0 (all voluntarily compliance from the start)  Commercial trucks observed double-parking on 700 Higuera: 0  Small delivery trucks logged: 10 (quick deliveries/high compliance)  Business owner interactions: 0 Operational Observations  Peak Volume & Turnover: The loading zone filled to capacity twice during the shift but cleared rapidly, as the majority of vehicles were conducting small, efficient deliveries.  Lull: Consistent with previous report, activity slowed down significantly after 2:00 PM. 2  Visual Documentation: Multiple photographic records were captured during routine passes to document the state of the zones; the commercial loading areas remained largely vacant throughout the day, though they were appropriately occupied by big rigs when in use.  Zone Misutilization (800 Palm): The loading zone on the 800 block of Palm filled frequently with regular customers who had mistakenly paid to park there. Educational enforcement was prioritized, and only warnings were issued to ensure future compliance.  Paystation Confusion: Multiple customers expressed confusion regarding paystation placement (as mentioned above for 800 palm) and on 700 higuera, frequently attempting to purchase parking while stationed within active loading zones. Ongoing data collection may show if paystation proximity and placement should be reevaluated to prevent inadvertent curb-space misuse. Community Relations  Positive Feedback: Public interactions were overwhelmingly positive today. Numerous customers expressed direct appreciation for being proactively guided to correct parking areas, particularly those who were relieved to avoid mistakenly paying for a loading zone space. All contacts resulted in immediate, voluntary compliance with zero negative or hostile interactions. Overall today was a great shift with plenty of wonderful customer interactions where I truly felt I got to shine as an ambassador for the city! Let me know if you need any follow up or have any questions regarding my report, I am more than happy to elaborate. Have a great night! Thank you, Michael Debonis Parking Compliance Officer II To help protect your priv acy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.City of San Luis Obispo Public Works 1260 Chorro Street Suite B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3668 E mdebonis@slocity.org T 805.781.7004 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Friday, July 10, 2026 4:08 PM Cc:Department Heads; Cruce, Greg; Rice, Jennifer; King, Donna; Leon, Jose (Luis); Nelson, Brian; Stephenson, Nemo; Schwartz, Luke Subject:RE: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Attachments:Loading Zone Slides 7.7.26.pdf BCC City Council ALL Mayor and Council, I wanted to provide a brief update following Tuesday's Downtown SLO Parking and Access Committee meeting regarding the Higuera loading zone pilot. Before opening the discussion, the City walked the committee through the same presentation that was shared with Council earlier this week (see attached and below). We reviewed the background and rationale for the Higuera lane reduction, including the safety and traffic calming objectives, the improvements we've seen since implementation, how the bike lane supports the City's Active Transportation Plan, Downtown Concept Plan, and Major City Goals, how the loading zone pilot was developed, and several additional strategies staff is exploring to improve downtown operations. The discussion was then opened up to business owners and naturally expanded beyond the loading zone pilot to include broader conversations about parking enforcement, parking rates, the Higuera lane configuration, and how each of those topics impacts downtown businesses. With respect to the pilot itself, we heard a variety of perspectives. Much of the discussion centered on operational challenges experienced by delivery drivers, including that loading zones are sometimes occupied when they arrive or can be difficult to access with larger delivery vehicles. We also heard concerns from businesses adjacent to the pilot that the dedicated loading zone can appear underutilized during portions of the day, creating the perception that valuable curb space is sitting empty after peak delivery hours. More broadly, several business representatives reiterated their concerns regarding the Higuera lane configuration and expressed a desire to revisit the existing striping and bike lane. At the conclusion of the meeting, recognizing that the discussion had expanded beyond the original purpose of the agenda item, staff reiterated the planned next steps for the pilot. Staff confirmed that the pilot would continue through the end of July, as originally planned, allowing time to complete the stakeholder survey (open through July 31), collect approximately one month of camera observations now that cameras have been installed on Higuera Street, and gather additional operational feedback. This information will help staff evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot and inform recommendations regarding next steps. One additional point that may be helpful context: the only item for which the committee formally went around the table and heard from every member was their top parking priority, or if they could change one thing. The most common response was free parking on Sundays, with members noting it as an opportunity to incentivize local residents to shop and spend time downtown. While parking rates were not part of the agenda for this meeting, the conversation naturally expanded in that direction. As you know, staff is not currently evaluating parking rates. When the City last completed a parking rate study, we brought the proposed rate structure and alternatives to the Downtown SLO Parking and Access Committee prior to Council consideration. That study included an option for free parking on Sundays, along with the associated revenue impacts and other recommended rate adjustments. Ultimately, free parking on Sundays was not part of Downtown SLO's recommendation to Council. Following the meeting, we shared a summary of the discussion and next steps with Downtown SLO to ensure alignment on the information-gathering process moving forward. 2 Staff will return to the Downtown SLO Parking and Access Committee on August 4 to share the survey results, camera observations, field experience, and evaluation of the pilot. The discussion will help inform potential next steps, which may include maintaining the current configuration, making adjustments, or other operational considerations. Staff will consider Downtown SLO's input alongside the broader feedback received through the survey, operational observations, safety objectives, and adopted City policy before determining the appropriate path forward. Throughout this process, staff remains committed to supporting a vibrant downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, visitors, residents, and the broader community. We appreciate the continued engagement from Downtown SLO and all stakeholders and look forward to continuing this conversation with information informed by stakeholder feedback, operational data, and the City's adopted transportation and safety goals. Please let me know if you have any questions or if I can provide any additional information. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Monday, July 6, 2026 6:26 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% 3 reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, 4 Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. 5 Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 2Commercial LoadingDTSLO Parking and Access Committee MeetingJuly 7, 2026 3Downtown SLO – How we got here Businesses raise concerns and submit feedback to City of SLOCity of SLO begins monitoring conditions Aug. 2025Oct. 21 – Environmental Committee meets with drivers; reviews potential approaches and staff recommendations Oct. 2025Tree trimming completed throughout the downtown core Nov. 2025May 5 – DTSLO requests expedited installation of pilot prior to June 1 May 27 – Pilot configuration installedMay 2026Commercial trucks frequently load from the travel lane, creating congestion and safety concerns. Loading zones are often unavailable or unsuitable for large trucks. Passenger vehicles sometimes occupy commercial loading zones. Greatest need is on the 700 block of Higuera(secondary: 1000 block). Pilot provides an opportunity to evaluate improvements that support the future Higuera corridor. Initial concerns: 5Understanding Higuera Street TodayCommon Perception'The third lane was removed to install a bike lane.'What people see:• Trucks unloading in travel lanes• Empty loading zones• A bike lane that may appear lightly used✓Clarifying the current road designThe primary purpose of the 2021 redesignwas traffic calming and pedestrian safety-firstproject.The lane reducƟon from 3 → 2 travel lanes:• Reduced vehicle speeds by 27%•Improved pedestrian safety by 50%•Supports the Safety of Downtown Customers•Supports General Plan, Active Transportation, Complete Streets, and Major City goals•The bike lane is one component of the overall safety-focused redesign.•✓Current Challenges•Loading zones may be occupied or difficult for large trucksto access.•Trucks may choose the travel lane when curb loading is notfeasible.•Enforcement is situational and depends on site conditions.•Commercial loading zones often sit unused outside peakdelivery periods.What California Law AllowsPreferred: Commercial loading zone Permitted: Travel lane when ‘reasonably necessary’ Not permitted: Bicycle lane loadingReminder: commercial vehicles may legally load from travel lanes under certain circumstances (CVC Chapter 9, 22502) 6Downtown Loading Zone Improvement - RoadmapTrimmed tree limbs over loading spaces (Nov 2025)Clear communication to all CLZ permit holders (Oct 2025)Loading Zone downtown inventoryCOMPLETED Higuera 700 Block Pilot ProjectOngoing Education for businesses and driversTargeted enforcement in loading zonesEvaluating Additional Improvements (next slide)Evaluate Higuera Street Striping Configuration w/ Emergency Services IN PROGRESS Broader downtown loading zone survey (Early 2027)Restriping loading zones throughout downtown (Spring 2027)Implement any Additional Improvements (Winter 2027)FUTURE(Planned) 7Exploring Additional ImprovementsModification to Traffic Signal TimingInstallation of additional wayfinding signs to Parking GaragesModification to CLZ times (i.e. Vehicles can park after 3pm)TRADE-OFFS3MK1 8CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block BEFORE(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANE 9CHORRO BROADHiguera 700 Block Pilot Project(9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM) GARDEN PARKING LANEBIKE LANEPARKING LANEHIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANESOUTH TRAVEL LANEPilot based on Field Observations and DT SLO FeedbackBetter turning radius from ChorroLonger loading zones for large trucks (80’ min)Due to SLOMA construction, original pilot location was shifted. Passenger Loading Zones Maintained in front of SLO Brew Lofts and on the South side of the block for smaller vehicles.Commercial vehicles can use Passenger Loading Spaces 10Pilot Project Field Observations & Feedback (so far)Survey Feedback•Pilot survey opened June 23rd•Number of responses: 35 so far•Average rating: 2.85 out of 5•Primary concern:Delivery trucks continue to stop in travellanes instead of using loading zones and curb space remainsvacant during the day.•Enforcementwas the most common recommendation toimprove compliance.•Loss of customer parkingand impacts to downtownbusinesses were frequent concerns.•Some respondents reported improved traffic flow,particularly during delivery periods.•Commercial users generally favored the longer loadingzonesfor larger trucks.•Comments also included broader feedbackon the Higuerabike lanes and downtown street design.•Parking Compliance Officers regularly patrol the area(7-10 times daily) and engage with drivers•When engaged, about 10% of delivery drivers will relocate to a loading zone•Once Tree was hit, Drivers were discouraged from using the loading zone•380 Commercial Loading Zone Violations Issued Monthly 11Next StepsJuly 31Pilot Survey ClosesAugust 4DT SLO MeetingEvaluate Pilot FeedbackSeptember 1DT SLO MeetingPresent draft changesOctoberImplement pilot recommendationsJanuaryDowntown SurveySpring 2027Update all downtown loading curbsContinued Monitoring and Stakeholder Outreach 1 From:Rice, Jennifer Sent:Friday, July 17, 2026 5:03 PM To:Kacsinta, Madeline Cc:King, Donna; Brocco, Christine Subject:DT Commercial Loading Zone Update Hi Madeline, I wanted to provide an update on the 700 Block of Higuera Pilot Project, along with several additional recommendations for your consideration. 700 Block of Higuera The survey results reveal mixed opinions about the pilot project. Feedback was mixed but leaned negative.  Businesses that regularly use commercial loading zones or make deliveries generally reported improved loading access and better traffic flow.  Many other downtown business owners remain concerned that the pilot has reduced customer parking without significantly changing delivery truck behavior.  Across both supporters and opponents, better enforcement of loading zone use emerged as one of the most consistent recommendations for improving the pilot. (As a note, this feedback reflects perception; Parking Compliance Officers have been prioritizing loading zone enforcement and spending significant time in these areas. The zones are being enforced appropriately, although there is currently no legal mechanism to require drivers to move out of the travel lane.) Over the reporting period, Parking Compliance Officers conducted targeted enforcement of commercial and passenger loading zones throughout the downtown, with a primary focus on the 700 block of Higuera. Overall compliance remained strong, with most commercial delivery vehicles appropriately utilizing designated loading zones and high turnover allowing deliveries to be completed efficiently. The majority of public interactions were positive, with customers voluntarily relocating vehicles after receiving education on loading zone regulations. Enforcement efforts emphasized compliance through education, with warnings frequently issued in lieu of citations when drivers immediately corrected violations. Pending Items:  The survey remains open through July 31, and we will continue monitoring responses until it closes.  Updated green signal timing on the Higuera corridor is currently being tested, and we expect to have feedback within the next few weeks.  Video monitoring of activity in commercial loading zones is underway; preliminary review shows 5 minutes of congestion one the first day between 1:10 – 1:15 PM, and 26 minutes of congestion the second day between 12:14 – 12:25 PM. No other congestion recorded due to commercial loading.  A map-based survey addressing overall downtown commercial loading needs is still planned for release later this year. Additional Staff Recommendations 2 Please review and share any feedback. If you are able to provide it prior to leaving next week, we can include some of this in the Parking Steering Committee meeting. Thanks, Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Kacsinta, Madeline Sent:Wednesday, August 5, 2026 6:36 PM Cc:Department Heads; Cruce, Greg; King, Donna; Rice, Jennifer; Leon, Jose (Luis); Nelson, Brian; Stephenson, Nemo; Schwartz, Luke; Fiedler, Laura; Brocco, Christine; LeBren Harris Subject:Re: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Attachments:26.8.4.pdf BCC: City Council ALL Dear Mayor and Council Members, I wanted to provide a brief update following the Downtown Parking & Access Committee meeting regarding the Commercial Loading Zone Pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street. Attached is the presentation that was shared with the committee, which summarizes the stakeholder survey results, staff observations, parking compliance monitoring, signal timing improvements, and traffic analysis completed to date. As part of the pilot evaluation, staff presented the results of a stakeholder survey, which reflected a wide range of perspectives and an overall rating of 3.1 out of 5, demonstrating that stakeholder feedback remains mixed. In addition to the survey, staff has been collecting daily observations from Parking Compliance Officers, including dedicated weekday monitoring of the commercial loading zones. These observations indicate that commercial vehicles consistently use the loading zones on the 700 block of Higuera when they are available. Conversely, when a passenger vehicle is illegally occupying a loading zone, delivery vehicles often stop or park in the travel lane rather than wait for the loading zone to become available. Staff also shared the results of two days of video monitoring conducted on Higuera Street to evaluate traffic operations. The analysis identified only three brief congestion events over the two-day period, all occurring between approximately noon and 1:30 p.m. Each event cleared in less than five minutes, indicating that the pilot has not resulted in significant or sustained traffic congestion during the monitoring period. Additionally, staff informed the committee that signal timing adjustments have now been implemented along Higuera Street to improve traffic flow. The updated timing provides additional green time for vehicles traveling on Higuera, is estimated to increase corridor capacity by approximately 40%, while potentially resulting in an average increase of up to 10 seconds of delay for pedestrians waiting to cross Higuera from side-streets. Staff will continue monitoring traffic operations through additional video analysis now that these signal timing changes have been implemented. To date, staff has not observed any operational issues associated with the adjustments; however, further observations and feedback will be collected to verify. Overall, committee members and businesses generally supported continuing the pilot while additional information is gathered before considering any permanent changes. Committee members acknowledged the operational improvements observed to date, including better accommodation of commercial deliveries, less frustration and congestion overall, and ongoing education and enforcement efforts. They also identifying opportunities for additional signage near the pilot project, which staff will be implementing at the near-by kiosk to alleviate confusion. The committee also discussed several adjustments to loading zones in the downtown area, including passenger loading opportunities in other downtown locations and whether modified commercial loading zone hours should be considered in the future. The committee and business representatives expressed frustration for loading zones that sat empty once delivery trucks had left for the day. Staff emphasized that no recommendation has been developed at this time and that any future consideration of modified loading zone hours would require careful evaluation to determine whether modified hours would improve downtown operations without creating confusion for drivers or unintended impacts to businesses and deliveries. As part of that evaluation, staff would consider the needs of all downtown users and that any future evaluation would include stakeholder outreach, an assessment of delivery patterns across different business types, an 2 evaluation of operational and community impacts, the development of a communications strategy, and the identification of performance measures to determine whether modified loading zone hours would provide an overall benefit. Staff's next steps are to continue monitoring loading activity and traffic via video surveillance and in-person observations, install informational signage at the kiosk adjacent to the loading zones, develop an evaluation plan to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of modified loading zone operating hours, and return to the Parking & Access Committee in September with any recommended refinements to the pilot project, should staff have any at that time. Please let me know if you have any questions. I have attached the presentation, which includes additional information. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works To help protect your priv acy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.City of San Luis Obispo Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Monday, July 6, 2026 6:26 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. 3 At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on 4 real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 City of SLO Mobility Update Downtown SLO Parking and Access Committee August 4, 2026 2 SLO Transit’s Academic Service m.) SLO Transit Academic Service •Beginning August 17: SLO Transit will return to its academic schedule with extended weekday evening service hours. •Route 6 Express direct from campus to Downtown SLO Farmers' Market will resume Thursday evening service on August 20 from 6:00 - 9:20 p.m.SLO Transit is coordinating with Cal Poly to help new students access downtown San Luis Obispo as part of their Week of Welcome (WOW) activities. 3 Bikeshare Program Update SLO has been planning for Bikeshare for 10+ years Recent changes in market and bikeshare technologies may allow for a successful proposal •May – Fall 2026 – Ongoing research and outreach •July 16, 2026 – Presentation to Active Transportation Committee •October 6, 2026 – Council vote on releasing bikeshare RFP •Fall 2026 – vendor procurement and contracting •Spring – Summer 2027 – bikeshare launch Project Contact: Jennifer Rice, jrice@slocity.org 4 Parking Meter Replacement Project 5 Commercial Loading Zones – Quick Overview Background Loading Zone Roadmap (Recap) Higuera 700 Block Pilot Project Results Discussion Next Steps 6 Commercial Loading Background Businesses raise concerns and submit feedback to City of SLO City of SLO begins monitoring conditions Aug. 2025 Oct. 21 – Environmental Committee meets with drivers; reviews potential approaches and staff recommendations Oct. 2025 Tree trimming completed throughout the downtown core Nov. 2025 May 5 – DTSLO requests expedited installation of pilot prior to June 1 May 27 –Pilot configuration installed May 2026 Pilot evaluation ongoing June 23-July 31 –Pilot Survey open August 4 –Survey results presented Summer 2026 Commercial trucks frequently load from the travel lane, creating congestion and safety concerns. Loading zones are often unavailable or unsuitable for large trucks. Passenger vehicles sometimes occupy commercial loading zones. Greatest need is on the 700 block of Higuera (secondary: 1000 block). Initial concerns: 7 Downtown Loading Zone Improvement - Roadmap COMPLETED Trimmed tree limbs over loading spaces (Nov 2025) Clear communication to all CLZ permit holders (Oct 2025) Loading Zone downtown inventory Signal Timing Adjustments Evaluate Higuera Striping Configuration w/Emergency Services IN PROGRESS Higuera 700 Block Pilot Project (Summer 2026) Ongoing Education for businesses and drivers Targeted enforcement in loading zones Evaluating Additional Improvements FUTURE (Planned) Broader downtown loading zone survey (Early 2027) Evaluation for Municipal Code Revisions (Early 2027) Restriping loading zones throughout downtown (Spring 2027) Implement any Additional Improvements (Winter 2027) 8 Downtown Loading Zone – Signal Timing Adjustments •Implemented signal timing refinements on Higuera (Osos to Nipomo) on 7/21/26 •Adds +10 seconds green on Higuera (+40% increase in vehicle capacity) •Effective 10am-6pm only, previous timings remain other times of day •Positive results on traffic flow thus far, City staff will continue to monitor and fine-tune 9 Downtown Stakeholder Online Survey Results Survey Overview The survey was mailed and emailed to all businesses on the 700 block of Higuera Street and shared with delivery companies. The survey was open from June 22nd to July 31st. 40 Survey Responses Received 37 Downtown Businesses 2 Visitors 1 Delivery Driver 8 had a Commercial Loading Zone permit 29 did not have a permit Most use the loading zones on weekday mornings. Weekday afternoons are the second busiest period. Weekend and evening use is limited. Average Rating 3.1 out of 5 10 Downtown Stakeholder Survey Feedback Positive Feedback •Improved morning traffic flow •Easier parking for large delivery trucks •More convenient loading and unloading Key Concerns •Loss of customer parking •Trucks continuing to park in travel lanes. •Need for stronger enforcement. •Loading zone being underutilized. •Bike lane and overall downtown access. Survey Suggestions •Restore customer parking if truck compliance remains low •Improve loading zone signage and awareness •Increase loading zone enforcement •Review permit eligibility and costs 11 Downtown Loading Zone Field Observations Commercial Loading Zone Violations Citations Warnings Repeat Violations Passenger Vehicle Misuse Remains the Primary Issue •Smaller vehicles continue to occupy commercial loading zones. •Violations involved drivers who had paid at nearby pay stations and believed parking was permitted. •Construction activity occasionally prevented delivery vehicles from accessing loading zones Education Proved Effective - Commercial Compliance Improved •Most contacts resulted in voluntary compliance after officers explained the regulations. •Large trucks increasingly used designated loading zones. •Delivery drivers generally receptive to education and drivers appreciated officer outreach and guidance. •Positive interactions significantly outnumbered confrontational encounters. 12 Downtown Loading Zone – Video Monitoring •July video observations: 2 study days showed occasional, short-duration congestion related to commercial loading. •Observed: 1-2 events per day typically caused by large trucks loading from the travel lane clearing within 2-5 minutes. No recurring congestion observed outside of these isolated events. •Peak time: 12:00–12:30 PM and 1:00–1:30 PM. •Ongoing monitoring: Will monitor 2 days per month through end of year; no pre-pilot video available for comparison. 13 CHORROBROAD700 Block Higuera Pilot Project (9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM)GARDENPARKING LANE BIKE LANE PARKING LANE HIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANE SOUTH TRAVEL LANE CLOSED DURING CONSTRUCTION 14 Discussion/Committee Input •Have you seen noticeable change with signal timing change? •Has the pilot program improved traffic flow/delivery access? •Parking Compliance Officers are enforcing the loading zones daily. Is the education improving traffic flow? •Do you have any additional feedback on the pilot project? 15 Next Steps August 4 DT SLO Meeting Evaluate Pilot Feedback September 1 DT SLO Meeting Present draft changes October Implement pilot recommendations January Downtown Survey Spring 2027 Update all downtown loading curbs Continued Monitoring and Stakeholder Outreach 1 From:Floyd, Aaron Sent:Thursday, August 6, 2026 4:14 PM To:King, Donna Cc:Kacsinta, Madeline Subject:RE: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Thanks Donna. I appreciate the follow-up. Sounds like we are on the right track. To be clear (and fair) there was a lot of relaying of what was said by various parties as part of this. Thanks again for growing that relationship with UPS. Aaron From: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 6, 2026 3:55 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Hi Aaron, As promised, I wanted to provide a quick update following my meeting with the UPS Business Manager this afternoon. The meeting went very well, and I was encouraged by how receptive UPS was to working collaboratively with Parking Services. We discussed the interaction involving the driver yesterday. The manager shared that the driver relayed a different account of the conversation and was disappointed to hear that the driver was not truthful with him. He plans to address the situation directly with the driver and provide additional training and guidance. He also let me know they will be posting reminders in their delivery vehicles reinforcing the expectation to use commercial loading zones, passenger loading zones, or paid spaces rather than blocking the lane whenever practical. We also exchanged cell phone numbers, so we now have a direct line of communication. Going forward, if we observe issues with UPS drivers, we can contact each other directly to address them quickly rather than letting the concerns continue. I think this partnership will be very beneficial as we continue our education and enforcement efforts around the commercial loading zones. Thank you again for bringing this to my attention. I appreciate your observations and support as we continue working to improve compliance and keep traffic moving safely downtown. Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 2 From: King, Donna Sent: Thursday, August 6, 2026 12:17 PM To: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: RE: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Hi Aaron, Thank you for sharing this. My team also let me know about this interaction and documented it in their daily log. I agree, the Compliance team is doing an amazing job. I am meeting with the UPS Business Manager this afternoon. He reached out to me yesterday and we had a great phone conversation, and UPS management expressed that they want to build a collaborative relationship with Parking Services so we can share concerns like this directly with them. They are currently conducting field audits and observing their drivers as part of their quality assurance efforts. Their direction to drivers has been to use the commercial loading zones whenever practical, and they want to be informed when drivers are not following that guidance. I think this is a very positive development, and I appreciate you bringing this to my attention. I'm looking forward to meeting with them this afternoon and continuing to build that partnership. I will send an update after the meeting. Donna King, PTMP Parking Program Manager Public Works 1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E DKing@slocity.org T 805.781.7234 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org> Sent: Thursday, August 6, 2026 12:06 PM To: King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org> Cc: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Hi Donna, Related to this, I spoke with one of the PCOs (who are all awesome!) this week about the successes of getting commercial drivers to utilize the CLZs. I had noticed a UPS driver who stopped in the middle of the lane, even though the CLZ was open about 100 ft away. He delivered a few packages, got back in his truck, drove the 100 ft and parked in the still-open CLZ. Then he proceeded to deliver a few more packages. This seemed odd to both me and the PCO. She had asked the driver about this and his reply was that his supervisor instructed him to park in front of the business - even if it was blocking a lane. It sounded like it was intended as a time-efficiency strategy– though this lacked some actual effectiveness given the extra steps the driver had to go through to re-park the truck. Either way, I don’t think the time-efficiency protocols of UPS are aligning with our standards for using the CLZ when practical. We could always just ticket the UPS drivers to start the dialogue (joking), but it seems that we should reach out to them and share our work on this and that we are going to be educating drivers on our expectations. 3 Thanks - I’m seeing some real progress in this area! Aaron From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2026 6:36 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <jleon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org>; Brocco, Christine <cbrocco@slocity.org>; LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Subject: Re: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Dear Mayor and Council Members, I wanted to provide a brief update following the Downtown Parking & Access Committee meeting regarding the Commercial Loading Zone Pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street. Attached is the presentation that was shared with the committee, which summarizes the stakeholder survey results, staff observations, parking compliance monitoring, signal timing improvements, and traffic analysis completed to date. As part of the pilot evaluation, staff presented the results of a stakeholder survey, which reflected a wide range of perspectives and an overall rating of 3.1 out of 5, demonstrating that stakeholder feedback remains mixed. In addition to the survey, staff has been collecting daily observations from Parking Compliance Officers, including dedicated weekday monitoring of the commercial loading zones. These observations indicate that commercial vehicles consistently use the loading zones on the 700 block of Higuera when they are available. Conversely, when a passenger vehicle is illegally occupying a loading zone, delivery vehicles often stop or park in the travel lane rather than wait for the loading zone to become available. Staff also shared the results of two days of video monitoring conducted on Higuera Street to evaluate traffic operations. The analysis identified only three brief congestion events over the two-day period, all occurring between approximately noon and 1:30 p.m. Each event cleared in less than five minutes, indicating that the pilot has not resulted in significant or sustained traffic congestion during the monitoring period. Additionally, staff informed the committee that signal timing adjustments have now been implemented along Higuera Street to improve traffic flow. The updated timing provides additional green time for vehicles traveling on Higuera, is estimated to increase corridor capacity by approximately 40%, while potentially resulting in an average increase of up to 10 seconds of delay for pedestrians waiting to cross Higuera from side-streets. Staff will continue monitoring traffic operations through additional video analysis now that these signal timing changes have been implemented. To date, staff has not observed any operational issues associated with the adjustments; however, further observations and feedback will be collected to verify. Overall, committee members and businesses generally supported continuing the pilot while additional information is gathered before considering any permanent changes. Committee members acknowledged the operational improvements observed to date, including better accommodation of commercial deliveries, less frustration and congestion overall, and ongoing education and enforcement efforts. They also identifying opportunities for additional signage near the pilot project, which staff will be implementing at the near-by kiosk to alleviate confusion. The committee also discussed several adjustments to loading zones in the downtown area, including passenger loading opportunities in other downtown locations and whether modified commercial loading zone hours should be considered in the future. The committee and business representatives expressed frustration for loading zones that sat empty once delivery trucks had left for the day. Staff emphasized that no recommendation has been developed at this time and that any future consideration of modified loading zone hours would require careful evaluation to determine whether modified hours would improve downtown operations without creating confusion for drivers or unintended impacts to businesses 4 and deliveries. As part of that evaluation, staff would consider the needs of all downtown users and that any future evaluation would include stakeholder outreach, an assessment of delivery patterns across different business types, an evaluation of operational and community impacts, the development of a communications strategy, and the identification of performance measures to determine whether modified loading zone hours would provide an overall benefit. Staff's next steps are to continue monitoring loading activity and traffic via video surveillance and in-person observations, install informational signage at the kiosk adjacent to the loading zones, develop an evaluation plan to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of modified loading zone operating hours, and return to the Parking & Access Committee in September with any recommended refinements to the pilot project, should staff have any at that time. Please let me know if you have any questions. I have attached the presentation, which includes additional information. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Monday, July 6, 2026 6:26 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes 5 pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. 6 This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 7 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 From:Floyd, Aaron Sent:Thursday, August 6, 2026 12:06 PM To:King, Donna Cc:Kacsinta, Madeline Subject:FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street Attachments:26.8.4.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Completed Hi Donna, Related to this, I spoke with one of the PCOs (who are all awesome!) this week about the successes of getting commercial drivers to utilize the CLZs. I had noticed a UPS driver who stopped in the middle of the lane, even though the CLZ was open about 100 ft away. He delivered a few packages, got back in his truck, drove the 100 ft and parked in the still-open CLZ. Then he proceeded to deliver a few more packages. This seemed odd to both me and the PCO. She had asked the driver about this and his reply was that his supervisor instructed him to park in front of the business - even if it was blocking a lane. It sounded like it was intended as a time-efficiency strategy– though this lacked some actual effectiveness given the extra steps the driver had to go through to re-park the truck. Either way, I don’t think the time-efficiency protocols of UPS are aligning with our standards for using the CLZ when practical. We could always just ticket the UPS drivers to start the dialogue (joking), but it seems that we should reach out to them and share our work on this and that we are going to be educating drivers on our expectations. Thanks - I’m seeing some real progress in this area! Aaron From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2026 6:36 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <jleon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Fiedler, Laura <LFiedler@slocity.org>; Brocco, Christine <cbrocco@slocity.org>; LeBren Harris <lebren@downtownslo.com> Subject: Re: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Dear Mayor and Council Members, I wanted to provide a brief update following the Downtown Parking & Access Committee meeting regarding the Commercial Loading Zone Pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street. Attached is the presentation that was shared with the committee, which summarizes the stakeholder survey results, staff observations, parking compliance monitoring, signal timing improvements, and traffic analysis completed to date. As part of the pilot evaluation, staff presented the results of a stakeholder survey, which reflected a wide range of perspectives and an overall rating of 3.1 out of 5, demonstrating that stakeholder feedback remains mixed. In addition to the survey, staff has been collecting daily observations from Parking Compliance Officers, including dedicated weekday monitoring of the commercial loading zones. These observations indicate that commercial vehicles consistently use the loading zones on the 700 block of Higuera when they are available. Conversely, when a passenger vehicle is illegally occupying a loading zone, delivery vehicles often stop or park in the travel lane rather than wait for the loading zone to become available. 2 Staff also shared the results of two days of video monitoring conducted on Higuera Street to evaluate traffic operations. The analysis identified only three brief congestion events over the two-day period, all occurring between approximately noon and 1:30 p.m. Each event cleared in less than five minutes, indicating that the pilot has not resulted in significant or sustained traffic congestion during the monitoring period. Additionally, staff informed the committee that signal timing adjustments have now been implemented along Higuera Street to improve traffic flow. The updated timing provides additional green time for vehicles traveling on Higuera, is estimated to increase corridor capacity by approximately 40%, while potentially resulting in an average increase of up to 10 seconds of delay for pedestrians waiting to cross Higuera from side-streets. Staff will continue monitoring traffic operations through additional video analysis now that these signal timing changes have been implemented. To date, staff has not observed any operational issues associated with the adjustments; however, further observations and feedback will be collected to verify. Overall, committee members and businesses generally supported continuing the pilot while additional information is gathered before considering any permanent changes. Committee members acknowledged the operational improvements observed to date, including better accommodation of commercial deliveries, less frustration and congestion overall, and ongoing education and enforcement efforts. They also identifying opportunities for additional signage near the pilot project, which staff will be implementing at the near-by kiosk to alleviate confusion. The committee also discussed several adjustments to loading zones in the downtown area, including passenger loading opportunities in other downtown locations and whether modified commercial loading zone hours should be considered in the future. The committee and business representatives expressed frustration for loading zones that sat empty once delivery trucks had left for the day. Staff emphasized that no recommendation has been developed at this time and that any future consideration of modified loading zone hours would require careful evaluation to determine whether modified hours would improve downtown operations without creating confusion for drivers or unintended impacts to businesses and deliveries. As part of that evaluation, staff would consider the needs of all downtown users and that any future evaluation would include stakeholder outreach, an assessment of delivery patterns across different business types, an evaluation of operational and community impacts, the development of a communications strategy, and the identification of performance measures to determine whether modified loading zone hours would provide an overall benefit. Staff's next steps are to continue monitoring loading activity and traffic via video surveillance and in-person observations, install informational signage at the kiosk adjacent to the loading zones, develop an evaluation plan to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of modified loading zone operating hours, and return to the Parking & Access Committee in September with any recommended refinements to the pilot project, should staff have any at that time. Please let me know if you have any questions. I have attached the presentation, which includes additional information. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 3 From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Monday, July 6, 2026 6:26 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> Subject: FW: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, As a follow-up to my email in May regarding the Downtown Higuera loading zone pilot, I wanted to provide a brief update as we move into the next phase of the project. The pilot on the 700 block of Higuera Street has now been in place for about one month, and staff are actively gathering feedback from downtown businesses through an online survey and direct outreach. We will also be meeting with Downtown SLO to discuss the pilot, share observations to date, and talk about additional opportunities to improve downtown circulation, access, and loading operations. Attached is the presentation that staff will be sharing with Downtown SLO. One of the key messages we will reinforce is the importance of remembering why Higuera Street was reconfigured in 2021. The conversion from three travel lanes to two was implemented to improve safety for all users of the downtown corridor. Since that time, the corridor has experienced approximately a 50% reduction in pedestrian-involved collisions and a 27% reduction in vehicle speeds, helping create a safer environment for customers, residents, visitors, and business owners. The roadway space made available by reducing a travel lane also allowed for the addition of bicycle facilities, supporting the transportation priorities established in the Downtown Concept Plan, which prioritizes pedestrians first, bicycles second, transit third, and vehicles fourth. These improvements also advance the City's Major City Goals and Active Transportation Plan by creating a safer and more connected multimodal transportation network. At the same time, we recognize that downtown loading operations are complex and that a vibrant downtown depends on balancing the needs of businesses, deliveries, customers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit, and motorists. The City's objective is not simply to implement a loading zone pilot, but to continue refining downtown operations in a way that supports economic vitality while maintaining safety improvements. In addition to evaluating the results of the 700 block pilot, staff will discuss several other operational improvements that may help address downtown circulation and access, including:  Expanding wayfinding signage to better direct visitors to the City's parking structures and reduce unnecessary circulation on Higuera Street.  Evaluating traffic signal timing along Higuera Street to improve traffic progression and reduce congestion during peak periods.  Exploring modifications to loading zone time restrictions in appropriate locations to allow public parking during periods of lower commercial loading demand while preserving access for deliveries when it is needed most. These efforts, together with continued stakeholder engagement and field observations, will help inform a broader downtown loading strategy rather than relying on any single operational change. We appreciate the continued partnership with Downtown SLO, downtown businesses, and the community as we work toward solutions that support both a safe and thriving downtown. We will continue to keep you informed as the pilot is evaluated and recommendations are developed. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works 4 Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: Kacsinta, Madeline Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 10:37 PM Cc: Department Heads <DepartmentHeads@slocity.org>; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Leon, Jose (Luis) <JLeon@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Stephenson, Nemo <nstephenson@slocity.org> Subject: Downtown Loading Zone Pilot – 700 Block of Higuera Street BCC: City Council ALL Madam Mayor and City Council, The City, in partnership with DTSLO, is implementing a pilot project on the 700 block of Higuera Street to improve commercial and passenger loading zone curb space and better support downtown operations. This effort is part of a broader City and DTSLO collaboration to address ongoing downtown loading challenges, particularly the impacts of large delivery vehicles blocking travel lanes during peak periods. Staff have observed these conditions on the 700 block of Higuera, heard consistent feedback from stakeholders, and held meetings with downtown partners regarding the need for improved loading access and circulation. As a first step, this pilot demonstrates the City’s commitment to working directly with Downtown SLO and local businesses to test practical, near-term adjustments that can be implemented quickly and refined based on real-world conditions. The ability to make timely operational changes and respond to feedback is a key part of this approach. During development of the pilot, City staff coordinated with DTSLO leadership, their Parking and Access Committee, and Impact Committee, who reviewed a conceptual layout in early May and provided supportive feedback to move forward. In final design refinement, staff identified a conflict between one of the proposed loading zone locations and planned SLOMA construction activity on the 700 block of Higuera, which continues through the summer and could affect functionality. In response, City staff and DTSLO collaboratively revised the layout to improve operational effectiveness and avoid conflicts. The updated configuration includes two larger commercial loading zones on the north side of Higuera Street, separated by a passenger loading zone. Installation of the pilot will proceed using City crews, with work scheduled to begin tomorrow morning, May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2026. Crews will work during morning hours to minimize disruption and expect to complete work prior to 10:00 AM each day. 5 This pilot is an adaptive, iterative step in a larger downtown loading strategy. The City anticipates using feedback from this effort and other observed conditions, along with a broader downtown loading survey planned for later this summer, to inform a comprehensive downtown-wide approach to loading zone placement and management. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety, circulation, and business access across the downtown while balancing the needs of businesses, delivery operations, and pedestrians. This work is being coordinated by Public Works Operations & Maintenance and Parking staff, who have supported an accelerated timeline to accommodate upcoming summer economic activity. Thank you to the Public Works team for their coordination and responsiveness in working with stakeholders to advance this effort. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Looking forward to seeing a positive change downtown. Thank you, Madeline Kacsinta Assistant Director of Public Works Public Works 919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E MKacsint@slocity.org T 805.781.7094 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications 1 City of SLO Mobility Update Downtown SLO Parking and Access Committee August 4, 2026 2 SLO Transit’s Academic Service m.) SLO Transit Academic Service •Beginning August 17: SLO Transit will return to its academic schedule with extended weekday evening service hours. •Route 6 Express direct from campus to Downtown SLO Farmers' Market will resume Thursday evening service on August 20 from 6:00 - 9:20 p.m.SLO Transit is coordinating with Cal Poly to help new students access downtown San Luis Obispo as part of their Week of Welcome (WOW) activities. 3 Bikeshare Program Update SLO has been planning for Bikeshare for 10+ years Recent changes in market and bikeshare technologies may allow for a successful proposal •May – Fall 2026 – Ongoing research and outreach •July 16, 2026 – Presentation to Active Transportation Committee •October 6, 2026 – Council vote on releasing bikeshare RFP •Fall 2026 – vendor procurement and contracting •Spring – Summer 2027 – bikeshare launch Project Contact: Jennifer Rice, jrice@slocity.org 4 Parking Meter Replacement Project 5 Commercial Loading Zones – Quick Overview Background Loading Zone Roadmap (Recap) Higuera 700 Block Pilot Project Results Discussion Next Steps 6 Commercial Loading Background Businesses raise concerns and submit feedback to City of SLO City of SLO begins monitoring conditions Aug. 2025 Oct. 21 – Environmental Committee meets with drivers; reviews potential approaches and staff recommendations Oct. 2025 Tree trimming completed throughout the downtown core Nov. 2025 May 5 – DTSLO requests expedited installation of pilot prior to June 1 May 27 –Pilot configuration installed May 2026 Pilot evaluation ongoing June 23-July 31 –Pilot Survey open August 4 –Survey results presented Summer 2026 Commercial trucks frequently load from the travel lane, creating congestion and safety concerns. Loading zones are often unavailable or unsuitable for large trucks. Passenger vehicles sometimes occupy commercial loading zones. Greatest need is on the 700 block of Higuera (secondary: 1000 block). Initial concerns: 7 Downtown Loading Zone Improvement - Roadmap COMPLETED Trimmed tree limbs over loading spaces (Nov 2025) Clear communication to all CLZ permit holders (Oct 2025) Loading Zone downtown inventory Signal Timing Adjustments Evaluate Higuera Striping Configuration w/Emergency Services IN PROGRESS Higuera 700 Block Pilot Project (Summer 2026) Ongoing Education for businesses and drivers Targeted enforcement in loading zones Evaluating Additional Improvements FUTURE (Planned) Broader downtown loading zone survey (Early 2027) Evaluation for Municipal Code Revisions (Early 2027) Restriping loading zones throughout downtown (Spring 2027) Implement any Additional Improvements (Winter 2027) 8 Downtown Loading Zone – Signal Timing Adjustments •Implemented signal timing refinements on Higuera (Osos to Nipomo) on 7/21/26 •Adds +10 seconds green on Higuera (+40% increase in vehicle capacity) •Effective 10am-6pm only, previous timings remain other times of day •Positive results on traffic flow thus far, City staff will continue to monitor and fine-tune 9 Downtown Stakeholder Online Survey Results Survey Overview The survey was mailed and emailed to all businesses on the 700 block of Higuera Street and shared with delivery companies. The survey was open from June 22nd to July 31st. 40 Survey Responses Received 37 Downtown Businesses 2 Visitors 1 Delivery Driver 8 had a Commercial Loading Zone permit 29 did not have a permit Most use the loading zones on weekday mornings. Weekday afternoons are the second busiest period. Weekend and evening use is limited. Average Rating 3.1 out of 5 10 Downtown Stakeholder Survey Feedback Positive Feedback •Improved morning traffic flow •Easier parking for large delivery trucks •More convenient loading and unloading Key Concerns •Loss of customer parking •Trucks continuing to park in travel lanes. •Need for stronger enforcement. •Loading zone being underutilized. •Bike lane and overall downtown access. Survey Suggestions •Restore customer parking if truck compliance remains low •Improve loading zone signage and awareness •Increase loading zone enforcement •Review permit eligibility and costs 11 Downtown Loading Zone Field Observations Commercial Loading Zone Violations Citations Warnings Repeat Violations Passenger Vehicle Misuse Remains the Primary Issue •Smaller vehicles continue to occupy commercial loading zones. •Violations involved drivers who had paid at nearby pay stations and believed parking was permitted. •Construction activity occasionally prevented delivery vehicles from accessing loading zones Education Proved Effective - Commercial Compliance Improved •Most contacts resulted in voluntary compliance after officers explained the regulations. •Large trucks increasingly used designated loading zones. •Delivery drivers generally receptive to education and drivers appreciated officer outreach and guidance. •Positive interactions significantly outnumbered confrontational encounters. 12 Downtown Loading Zone – Video Monitoring •July video observations: 2 study days showed occasional, short-duration congestion related to commercial loading. •Observed: 1-2 events per day typically caused by large trucks loading from the travel lane clearing within 2-5 minutes. No recurring congestion observed outside of these isolated events. •Peak time: 12:00–12:30 PM and 1:00–1:30 PM. •Ongoing monitoring: Will monitor 2 days per month through end of year; no pre-pilot video available for comparison. 13 CHORROBROAD700 Block Higuera Pilot Project (9AM – 9PM)(9AM – 6PM)(9AM – 9PM)GARDENPARKING LANE BIKE LANE PARKING LANE HIGUERA STREETNORTH TRAVEL LANE SOUTH TRAVEL LANE CLOSED DURING CONSTRUCTION 14 Discussion/Committee Input •Have you seen noticeable change with signal timing change? •Has the pilot program improved traffic flow/delivery access? •Parking Compliance Officers are enforcing the loading zones daily. Is the education improving traffic flow? •Do you have any additional feedback on the pilot project? 15 Next Steps August 4 DT SLO Meeting Evaluate Pilot Feedback September 1 DT SLO Meeting Present draft changes October Implement pilot recommendations January Downtown Survey Spring 2027 Update all downtown loading curbs Continued Monitoring and Stakeholder Outreach 1 From:Rice, Jennifer Sent:Monday, September 8, 2025 3:08 PM To:LeBren Harris Cc:Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; King, Donna; Cruce, Greg Subject:RE: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones Hello LeBren, Absolutely we will add this item to next weeks Parking and Access Committee meeting. To clarify the code Cassandra was referencing, it is not a municipal code but a California Vehicle Code - CVC 22502(b)(1). This code allows a commercial vehicle to stop in the roadway/traffic lane if it is reasonably necessary to stop in the lane for loading or unloading. That said – it isn’t a moot point – but the challenge is to incentivize and or create curbside that is well designed and functional for deliveries. But as you can tell – it isn’t a challenge with a simple solution, and we will need to continue to work together on this one! Looking forward to further discussion next week. Thanks! Jennifer Rice, PTP, AICP pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications From: LeBren Harris Sent: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:04 PM To: Rice, Jennifer Cc: Collins, Scott ; Floyd, Aaron ; King, Donna Subject: Re: Downtown Commercial Loading Zones HI Jennifer! Thanks so much for this info. We are not intending to have this discussion at our next BOD meeting next week. Can we add this on for updated discussion for Parking and Access? Also, I was speaking to Cassandra today. She believes it is in the municipal code if a commercial truck is actively unloading, they are permitted to double park. Is this accurate information? If so, it would make any discussion null and void. For the tree trimming, do you know when this is being planned? We were getting ready to utilize a contractor to re-do the lights on the trees on Higuera. With this information, we will have them pause until the tree trimming is complete. Thanks Jennifer! 2 LeBren Harris (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer, Downtown SLO 805-234-9677 | DowntownSLO.com | LeBren@DowntownSLO.com 1135 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo CA 93401 On Wed, Sep 3, 2025 at 4:01 PM Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org> wrote: Hello LeBren, This email is to follow up on the recent conversations about commercial loading in the downtown core, particularly on Higuera Street. First, as always, we appreciate the feedback provided from DTSLO and downtown business owners and look forward to working together on solutions. Our team has collaborated internally in addition to observing how the current loading zones are being used. Below is information we want to share to help guide potential strategies moving forward. Higuera Street Layout The cross-section of Higuera Street includes on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a buffered bike lane. The Downtown Concept Plan first set the policy direction to reduce Marsh and Higuera from three to two lanes downtown and to add separated bike lanes. The City’s Active Transportation Plan and Traffic Safety Reports reinforced this direction to calm traffic and improve safety for people walking and biking. This configuration was implemented as part of the 2022 Paving Project which also included minor adjustments to commercial loading zones. A tradeoff to this design, as we have seen, is that large commercial vehicles that stop in the street now block one of two lanes, whereas in the past two lanes often remained open. Observed Behavior in Commercial Loading Zones In August, City Parking staff spent several hours observing Higuera Street to understand the issues brought forward by business owners:  Passenger vehicles with commercial loading zone permits issued through the City’s Commercial Loading Zone Program often park in commercial loading zones for long periods without loading, blocking access for delivery trucks.  Large semi-trucks rarely use the designated loading zones due to curb obstacles (street furniture or low hanging tree branches), bike lanes, and maneuverability issues; they usually stop in a travel lane.  Smaller box trucks could use loading zones but are often blocked by the passenger vehicles in those same zones, which forces the box trucks to park in travel lanes as well. Potential Strategies and Tradeoffs Below are some potential solutions to address the observed impediments to use of the commercial loading zones. We look forward to discussing these, and other potential solutions, with DSLO. 1. Enforce Commercial Loading Zone Rules More Strictly  Require active loading within 8 minutes.  Require professional signage on vehicles (not just a flyer on the dash) for passenger commercial loading zone permits.  Graduated enforcement: first warning, second citation, third commercial loading zone permit revocation.  Tradeoffs: More consistent use of loading zones, but could increase complaints from commercial loading zone permit holders (often business owners). 2. Reallocate Curb Space  Shorten commercial loading zones to better fit box trucks.  Increase passenger loading zones (under 10 minutes) for food delivery, hotel guests, and business owners/employees.  Tradeoffs: Could reduce congestion at loading zones, but would mean a loss of general parking spaces. 3 Proposed Tree Pruning in Downtown Every three years the City contracts to prune downtown trees. Among the benefits, this work maintains clearances so larger vehicles can pull up to the curb. Drivers of larger trucks have noted they sometimes avoid curbs because of low branches. The last pruning was in 2022. Public Works Maintenance plans to start the next cycle in fall 2025, focusing on Higuera first. Communications will be sent to DTSLO and the community prior to starting these activities. Please take your time reviewing this, and I look forward to your input—especially your perspective on how the business community may respond to these suggestions, understanding that each option involves tradeoffs. Thank you for your ongoing collaboration! Jennifer Rice pronouns she/her/hers Deputy Director of Mobility Services Public Works Mobility Services 1260 Chorro, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218 E jrice@slocity.org T 805.781.7058 slocity.org Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications