The businesses in Portsmouth thrive because of the commitment and hard work of the employees who make the city vibrant and prosperous. Many of these workers struggle to find affordable and convenient parking solutions throughout the city and rely on free parking spaces, many of which were recently changed to a pay-to-park model under the Resident Access Parking Program (RAPP). The removal of these relied upon free parking options places unnecessary burden on those who contribute significantly to the community and economic growth of our city.

The businesses in town do not exist without their workers. From the early morning baristas and retail staff to the late-night servers, kitchen workers and bartenders, these individuals are the backbone of our local economy. Should they decide to leave Portsmouth in pursuit of a town that treats them like valuable members of society, we will see businesses shutter, and Portsmouth will fail to thrive.

Affordable parking is not a luxury; it is a necessity for our workforce. Many workers cannot afford the additional daily cost of paid parking, and it is both unfair and unsustainable to put this onus on them. Adding insult to injury, RAPP attempts to sanitize the removal of these free parking options with the designation of discounted 'workforce parking,' now charging workers to park in the same spaces we've had access to for free.

The city council needs to restore free parking options for the workers who make Portsmouth the thriving city that it is. Join us in urging the city council to act swiftly—the health of our local economy depends on it. Let us all make Portsmouth a city that values and supports its workforce by signing this petition. Sign now to make a difference!