We’ve been quiet on parking for a while, but it continues to be a concern for us. Many of you may have seen that the town recently lowered the daily parking rate, which we see as a step in the right direction. There are also proposals being discussed about raising weekend rates and eliminating premium parking. We view any conversation about changes as a positive move forward.

We sent an email to the board today with the following points:

If weekend rates are increased and premium parking is removed, we believe that could be a positive step. That said, if weekend rates do go up, could the board consider allowing free parking after 5:00 PM Monday through Thursday, as we suggested in a proposal last year? Even free parking after 6:00 PM would be helpful, so people can still enjoy some daylight hours at the beach without paying.

We understand the updated parking app will provide more detailed data, which may show that evening parking during the summer is not at full capacity. That information could help guide a balanced approach that supports both access to the beach and revenue goals.

If adjusting weekday evening times isn’t feasible, would the board consider shifting the paid parking season to start at the end of March and conclude at the end of September instead?