SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.- The city of San Luis Obispo has grown dramatically over the last few years and a big part of that is its downtown businesses.
Taking a look back from the 50's to now, much has been changed in downtown San Luis Obispo, but it's still a place people are drawn to.
"There are a lot of new restaurants and bars in particular that are coming in to our downtown and it does draw people from all around the area to our downtown to frequent those places," said Courtney Kienow, Director of Governmental Affairs, San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce.
The city's smart planning has kept business booming and business owners scrambling for retail space that's at a high demand.
"We have a very low vacancy rate so you will see a lot of things have changed," said Deborah Cash, Executive Director of the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association.
If you've been to San Luis Obispo you've probably been down Bubble Gum Alley, most likely even taken a picture. Since the 60's people have been putting gum on the walls and by the looks of it, Bubble Gum Alley sticks out to be one of the major attractions of downtown.
If we compare the downtown sales revenue from last year's first quarter to this year, it's increased by nearly $50,000 totaling more than $430,000.
Central Coast News asked shoppers what's their favorite part about downtown. Pam Ables said, "the shopping."
"The ambiance," said Alex Kizais. While others said "lots of good places to eat."
As downtown continues to grow, employees say the friendly atmosphere continues to stay the same.
"We've been identified as the happiest place in the world and that definitely reflects this community and what is happening downtown," said Kienow.
