SLO County Market Update & Article on “PROHOUSING” In Action

*INTERESTING FACT –

The Salinas River is nicknamed the “Upside Down River” because it travels from south to north and largely flows underground rather than on the surface, appearing dry for most of the year.

“PROHOUSING” In Action

San Luis Obispo County is gaining statewide recognition for taking steps to address the housing shortage, recently earning California’s “Prohousing Designation” for cutting red tape, supporting affordable development, and expanding housing opportunities. As policies accelerate construction and unlock funding, projects are moving forward across the region. In this newsletter, we’ll highlight developments underway throughout the county, offering a snapshot of how communities are working to meet housing needs.

San Luis Obispo

Monterey Street Development

Situated on Monterey Street between California Blvd. and Pepper St., the proposed five-story, development will include 105 affordable residential units, with 56 designated for senior housing.

Bridge Street Project

This three-story mixed-use development is currently under construction and will include 94–100% affordable housing units with 924 sq ft commercial space.

San Luis Square

This mixed-use development includes 52 residential units, 36 hotel rooms, and 13,500 sq ft of commercial space, along with a semi-underground parking lift system providing 69 spaces. Situated in downtown SLO, it spans the block between Marsh and Higuera Streets along Nipomo. The development offers a range of unit types and price points, from studios to 2-bedroom penthouses.

Nipomo

Dana Reserve

The 288-acre community will be built between US 101 and Hetrick Avenue. It will include up to 1,242 homes, commercial space, over 60 acres of open space, 6.3 acres of recreation areas, and needed infrastructure. Construction is expected to start in July and take about 10 years to finish.

Hill Street Terraces

Located at the corner of Blume and Hill Streets, this project includes 24 modern single-family homes with 3- and 4-bdrm layouts. Prices start in the low $700,000s. Sales began in spring 2025, and the project is expected to be completed this year.

Atascadero

Oak Ridge Estates

Nestled just off Highway 41 in West Atascadero, Oak Ridge Estates offers homesites spanning 2 to 12 acres. Homebuyers can select from a range of floor plans or bring their own ideas to craft a completely custom home.

Barrel Creek

The development includes 20 houses, 40 apartments, 16 short-term cottages, a 120-room hotel, and commercial space. It’s designed as a “maker’s space,” focused on artisan goods, craft beer, and entertainment.

Avila Beach

Avila Canyon Estates

A small gated community off Ontario Rd. with 21 homes near Avila Beach, offering 4-bedroom residences with 3–5 baths and 2,485–3,195 sq ft. Prices generally range from the high $1.8M to $2.3M+.

Pismo Beach

Ocean Terraces

The proposed development would add 34 homes, including five deed-restricted affordable units. Located at 1481 Price St., it’s been promoted as the “Gateway to Pismo”.

Arroyo Grande

Creekside Junction

Earlier this month, the Arroyo Grande City Council approved a 92-unit housing development on a 1.81-acre property at 1271 & 1281 James Way, near Curl Fitness. The project will consist of two four-story residential buildings featuring 20 studios, 58 one-bedroom units and 14 two-bedroom units.

San Miguel

River’s Edge

In February, the Planning Commission unanimously approved River’s Edge at 3000 Indian Valley Road, a development adding about 20% more housing to San Miguel. The 43-acre project includes 181 single-family homes (18 affordable), plus commercial space, utility parcels, and 13 acres of parks and open space. It will be built in four phases alongside wastewater plant upgrades expected by 2028.

Paso Robles

Vinedo Community

The development includes 1,293 homes, 9,800 sq ft of commercial space, parks, trails, an event barn, a fitness center, and possible elementary school. Located off Parkview Ln. in east Paso, homes feature 2–4 bedrooms and up to 3-car garages.

Beechwood

The Beechwood Specific Plan covers 234 acres in southeast Paso Robles. It includes 911 homes (with at least 150 multi-family units), 40,000 sq ft of commercial and mixed-use space, over 20 acres of open space including an 8-acre park, and a 2.9-mile multi-use trail system.

Templeton

Bennett Ranch

Construction began in February on a new development in Templeton, off Bennett Way near Vineyard Dr., adding fourteen estate homesites. Homes range 2,500 to 3,200 sq ft. Floor plans include 3–4 bedrooms and 3–4 bathrooms, with select options offering ADUs. Prices start at $1.5 million and completion is expected in 2027.