Downtown Bend works because it’s easy, accessible, and welcoming—and free parking is a big part of that. The Downtown Bend Business Association (DBBA) is exploring a paid parking proposal and could advance it to City Council as early as June if there is enough perceived support. This type of policy shift is outside DBBA’s core scope, and more importantly, the available data does not support the need—parking utilization remains below typical thresholds, stays are already short, and no updated data has been provided.

Free parking supports small businesses, drives foot traffic, and keeps downtown competitive. DBBA’s own survey shows nearly 65% of visitors would come less often—or not at all—if free parking is removed. There is also no clear plan outlining where paid parking would apply or how it would be implemented. Moving forward without clear data, defined scope, or a fully developed plan risks real harm to downtown businesses.

This proposal will only move forward if it appears to have community backing. If you value accessible, business-friendly downtown conditions, your voice matters. Sign the petition to show that the community supports keeping parking free and does not support moving this proposal to City Council.

This is a free petition- no need to promote.