Paso Robles 1Q Sales Tax Highlights

Paso Robles’ tax receipts from January through March were 19.2% above the first sales period in 2021. The largest factor in this improvement was a 44% surge in receipts from local service stations due to the higher prices for gasoline at the pump. Casual dining restaurants rebounded 41% from last year’s pandemic-impacted results as people got out of the house to come together again, seeking meaningful ways to connect with others after the isolation of the Covid-19 epidemic.
Read the report HERE.

Cal Poly Proposes Next Steps for Spaceport/Tech Corridor Project

In April, the City of Paso Robles and Cal Poly signed a Letter of Intent to collaborate on the Spaceport and Tech Corridor project, providing Cal Poly with "learn by doing" opportunities in aeronautics and space, to support its
educational mission.  On August 16, Cal Poly presented to Council a proposal to advance the next phase of the Spaceport licensing process with the FAA.  Cal Poly also proposed working closely with the City in developing public-private sector partnerships for technology and innovation in the space, ag-tech and supporting industry ecosystems for the Tech Corridor, to attract higher-paying tech jobs to Paso.  Additionally, Cal Poly and Cuesta College propose developing training programs for Workforce Development in tech-related fields. A video of the presentation to Council can be viewed HERE.

Congressman Panetta Tours Spaceport and Tech Corridor Areas

On August 23, Congressman Jimmy Panetta toured the proposed Paso Robles Spaceport and Tech Corridor areas on a visit organized by the Government Relations Office of Cal Poly.  Accompanying the Congressman was Cal Poly Vice-President/CIO William Britton, Mayor Steve Martin, City Manager Ty Lewis, and Director of Community Development Warren Frace.  City staff presented the significant economic development and diversification opportunities the project presents for the community, as well as the infrastructure needs in upgrading access to the airport area.

Trades on Display at Mid-State Fair

Trade professionals collaborated on a demonstration project to build a tiny house on wheels in partnership with Operation WEBS (Women Empowered Build Strong). WEBS builds tiny homes on wheels as a sustainable solution for displaced & homeless women veterans struggling to transition back to civilian life after their military service.  Participating trades included the Southwest Carpenters, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and UA Plumbers, Welders, Pipefitters and Refrigeration Fitters from Local Union #403, among others. The professional trades offer career training through paid apprenticeship programs leading to Journeyman upgrade training, competitive wages and benefits that set the standard in the industry. Learn more about local apprenticeship opportunities HERE.

National Black Business Month

According to data from the Annual Business Survey and Non-employer Statistics by Demographics, there are more than 3.2 million Black-owned U.S. businesses employing over 1.18 million workers, based on figures provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The value of entrepreneurship has long been a major influence in the Black community, making it an essential contributor to the nation’s economy.  Here are 10 Ways To Celebrate National Black Business Month!

Union/Golden Hill Detours & FAQs

The intersection at Golden Hill and Union is closed for construction. Please use posted detours to avoid impacting residential neighborhoods. With school now open, please plan your route and departure time to account for traffic impacts. We apologize for the inconvenience, it will be worth it in the end! Read the FAQs about the closure.

Click here to View the More Information About City of Paso Robles Economic Development Newsletter, August 2022