Transit Authority proposes service changes in San Luis Obispo including new Route 5

The San Luis Obispo City Council convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding public transportation service changes and fare recommendations. The meeting focused on a comprehensive service alternatives analysis aimed at enhancing the city's transit system.

The session began with a review of previous discussions and feedback received during a study session. Council members were presented with a series of recommendations designed to restore and improve transit services to pre-pandemic levels. Notably, the proposed changes do not include service along Phillips or Pepper Street, a correction made after identifying outdated information.

Key recommendations included restoring two tripper services—the San Luis Tripper and the Highland Tripper—which are currently not in operation. Additionally, the council proposed increasing service frequency on Routes 4A and 4B, adding two morning and two afternoon runs to better accommodate Cal Poly students.

Further adjustments were suggested for Routes 2A and 2B, which would see a revision to improve on-time performance by doubling the frequency of service, reducing wait times from 90 minutes to 45 minutes. The plan also includes providing year-round academic service to eliminate service gaps during summer months.

Weekend service expansion was highlighted as a priority, responding to community requests for improved access for weekend workers and students. The council discussed the potential introduction of a new Route 5 to serve the Avila Ranch area and a micro transit pilot program aimed at addressing evening service gaps.

Lastly, the council reviewed fare recommendations, concluding that current rates align with those of peer agencies, suggesting no immediate changes are necessary.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine these recommendations based on community feedback and operational assessments, setting the stage for future discussions on enhancing public transit in San Luis Obispo.