In this episode of Capital Rivers Connect: California Edition, host Brian Bushlach talks with Loreli Cappel, Deputy Director of Economic and Community Development for the City of Atascadero. They explore how this Central Coast city is evolving from a quiet bedroom community into a thriving, economically diverse destination. The conversation highlights Atascadero economic development through downtown revitalization, remote work, small business growth, and a strong sense of community.
From Bedroom Community to Economic Momentum
Once known for its slow growth, Atascadero has experienced a major shift in recent years. With proactive leadership and a strategic focus on development, the city is seeing a surge in activity—from business licenses to mixed-use projects. Cappel shares how Atascadero’s identity is evolving as more families, entrepreneurs, and innovators choose to live and work locally.
The Rise of Remote Work and Local Talent
Broadband upgrades and a growing coworking scene have helped fuel Atascadero economic development. The city is attracting remote workers from companies like Uber, Apple, and LinkedIn. These residents now enjoy the area’s quality of life without giving up career opportunities. Coworking spaces are thriving with waitlists, creating fresh energy and collaboration in the workforce.
Craft Beer, Community Events, and Culture
While the nearby wine industry continues to flourish, Atascadero has built a strong craft beer scene of its own. Community events like the Tamale Festival also draw locals and visitors together. Diverse dining options, authentic tamales, and a hometown vibe help define Atascadero’s charm. These cultural elements are now central to Atascadero economic development.
The Charles Paddock Zoo’s National Recognition
The city-owned Charles Paddock Zoo recently received a rare five-year accreditation, placing it among just 200 accredited zoos nationwide. Cappel highlights the zoo’s conservation efforts, creative programming, and collaborative designs developed in partnership with Cal Poly. With ongoing investment and leadership, the zoo is becoming a central piece of Atascadero’s identity and a contributor to the city’s broader economic and cultural goals.
Focused Revitalization in the Downtown Core
Downtown Atascadero is undergoing a thoughtful transformation. With $12 million in recent public investment—including a Complete Streets project—city leadership is now focused on assembling parcels near City Hall for master-planned development. These efforts are a cornerstone of Atascadero economic development, aimed at creating a vibrant, walkable hub for locals and visitors alike.
Looking Ahead: Growth Rooted in Community
Atascadero is currently updating its General Plan and zoning code to support flexible, mixed-use development and long-term investment. As the city evolves, Cappel emphasizes a shared commitment to preserving the character, lifestyle, and tight-knit culture that makes Atascadero special. Community spirit and smart planning continue to fuel sustainable growth and economic resilience.
Listen to the full episode of Capital Rivers Connect to learn more about how Atascadero economic development is shaping the future of this dynamic Central Coast community.
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