Carrboro is considering converting hundreds of public parking spaces into paid spots in its downtown area to increase turnover and disincentivize long-term parking in the dense, bustling downtown area.
Why it matters: While the program would aim to manage parking accessibility, residents have voiced a range concerns about it — from its effect on local businesses to how it could weigh on low-income drivers.
Between the lines: Others say the revenue from the program should go toward supporting town services and amenities.
- Currently, it's slated to pay for the expenses of the enforcement program and rent and maintenance of Carrboro's public lots, the town's economic development director Jon Hartman-Brown told Axios.
By the numbers: Under the proposal, about 715 parking spaces would become paid, representing approximately 19.5% of all parking (public and private) in downtown Carrboro, Hartman-Brown says.
Zoom in: The proposal indicates that the first 30 minutes of public parking would remain free of charge. After that, it'd be $1.50 per hour.
- It'd be $20 for the first violation and $50 for each subsequent violation, according to the town.
What they're saying: We go to restaurants in Carrboro BECAUSE of the free parking," Instagram user Emily Cort wrote recently, in response to the town's post about the ordinance.
The other side: Town officials have pointed to a study indicating that drivers leave their cars in public parking spaces for more than the currently allowed two hours.
- Among the specific concerns: UNC Park-and-Ride students use the Town of Carrboro's free parking — and no enforcement is occurring.
What's next: The town of Carrboro was supposed to address the parking proposal in its June 18 meeting but postponed the discussion until Sept. 17.
- "It will give us more time for more community engagement," assistant town manager Marie Parker said during the June meeting.
- You can provide feedback here .
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