Investing in SLO County Transportation
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How would an estimated $35M in additional funds benefit my community if a voter-approved transportation tax was passed in SLO County?
​55% Local Road Repairs & Improvements
Distributed by population to cities and the County to address the unique needs of their community as identified through public input for:
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Road maintenance & repair
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Safe routes to schools
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Walking & biking improvements
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Street & roadway improvements
40% Regional Projects
Distributed based on population to four subregions (North County, South County, Central County and North Coast) for:
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Highway Projects
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Regional Corridor
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Improvements & Trails
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Regional Transit Services
4% Enhanced Mobility Services & Programs
Expands access for seniors, veterans, and residents with mobility challenges
1% Administration & Oversight
Includes provisions for audits, reporting, citizen oversight, and a requirement to update the expenditure plan every 10 years
Why is a new sales tax being considered?
​Maintaining and upgrading roads, highways, bike facilities, sidewalks, and transit services comes at a significant cost. Everything from pothole repairs to expanded bike lanes to improved mobility programs are part of the growing list of needs for our communities.
​It is estimated that SLO County will be facing a $2.3 billion funding gap to meet the transportation improvements outlined in the Regional Transportation Plan. This lack of funding for improving road conditions and transportation services contributes to a higher cost of living in our area.​​​​
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Revenue from a sales tax would also allow agencies in SLO County to leverage these funds for competitive state and federal grants, bringing additional transportation dollars back to the county.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION TAXES COLLECTED & GRANT FUNDS RECEIVED BY COUNTY FROM 2016–2025
​​​​Over the past 9 years, neighboring counties that adopted similar sales tax measures have generated significant funding for transportation projects. Based on leveraged revenue from counties with a voter-approved transportation tax, SLO County could bring an estimated $1 billion in additional funding back to the region over 30 years. A local sales tax measure would allow SLO County to generate local dollars for local projects and help close the funding gap.
How will the sales tax measure work?
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If approved by voters, the measure would provide local agencies with dedicated funding for transportation improvements in their own communities. To ensure transparency and responsible use of funds, the measure includes strong accountability and oversight requirements.
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We heard you!
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The expenditure plan was shaped by extensive outreach and engagement with communities across San Luis Obispo County. Feedback was gathered through public workshops, an online survey, and focus groups to inform how funds will be used to address local needs, improve regional connectivity, and ensure accountability. ​​
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