Cleveland is dialing back parking rates
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Cleveland City Council approved lower parking rates and shorter enforcement hours at its final meeting before the summer recess last week — and we have thoughts.
State of play: Council members said downtown parking had become too expensive under Mayor Justin Bibb, who introduced new rates and eliminated free evening and weekend parking earlier this year.
How it works: Downtown meters can now charge $1-$3 per hour Monday-Saturday from 7am-10pm.
- Sunday parking will be free, except during special events.
Between the lines: Event rates can climb to $8 per hour, but only in designated zones near the Gateway District and the lakefront.
Zoom out: Outside downtown, parking will cost $1 per hour for up to eight hours, then up to $3 per hour Monday-Friday from 7am-8pm.
💭 Sam's thought bubble: I am rabidly opposed to paying for parking as anything other than a last resort, and I'll generally bike, take public transit or park far away from my destination to avoid doing so.
- And yet I am 100% in support of higher rates.
- The Bibb administration's arguments — that higher rates and dynamic pricing increase vehicle turnover and bring in much-needed cash for the city — are borne out by year-over-year revenue.
💭 Troy's thought bubble: I disagree. I think the city is generating revenue at the expense of local businesses.
- Higher parking rates and a drawback on free parking discourages people from going downtown, especially when you factor in the money you have to pay for "special events."
📬 What's your take on Cleveland parking rates? Email us at [email protected] to let us know.