Portland Pulls It's Parking Forgiveness Plan
Beginning July 1st, motorists parking in Portland will have to be more vigilant when they park. Once the norm, no longer will the city write off one parking ticket per car every six months.
With a $196 million municipal budget, Portland is forgoing the so-called “forgiveness program” which costs the city an estimated $500,000 a year. Previously, drivers could incur minor parking infractions such as an expired meter twice per year and not have to worry about paying the fine. Now, however, Portland is no longer providing the friendly service to its 1,450 parking meters throughout the city.
Other changes to downtown parking include eliminating the First Hour Free program at the Elm Street and Spring Street parking garages, however, the city does have other ways to save on parking.
The little known Park & Shop promotion offers shoppers a free hour in public parking garages with each purchase at a downtown store. Drivers who park in a garage or lot and take their ticket with them while shopping can get a stamp with each purchase good for one hour of free parking.
The city of Portland states that their established parking regulations ensure that:
- The City streets remain safe and accessible for the entire community
- There is appropriate turnover and availability of parking for citizens, customers, visitors and businesses
- Parked vehicles do not interfere with street maintenance and operations
- Vehicle traffic works in conjunction with non-auto modes and bus transportation.
The current hourly rate to park in Portland is $1.00 per hour, with meters accepting nickels, dimes and quarters. Parking meters are in effect from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, while parking on Sundays and major holidays is free.
For more information on public parking in Portland, please visit: www.ci.portland.me.us/parking/regulations.asp.
