A new rate structure for metered on-street parking in the popular West 7th district goes into effect Dec. 13.
The new rate structure allows two hours of free parking before 5 p.m. to retail customers visiting the area. The change is intended to address concerns expressed by business owners who contend that on-street metered parking has contributed to a decline in business. Other stakeholders were concerned with the lack of available on-street parking due to long-term parking and a lack of turnover parking in the district. This change will also discourage the misuse of on-street parking by employees.
The City Council voted unanimously in favor of the change, which will allow two hours of free parking daily, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., within a three-hour tiered rate structure. A $3 rate will be charged for the third hour if a patron stays beyond the allotted two hours of free parking during the day. A rate of $3 per hour will be charged between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., with no free parking.
