“As we continue to revitalize and increase activity in downtown, we need to have a better and more coordinated parking system,” Springfield City Manager Bryan Heck said.
This could include adding metered parking downtown as city officials say that street parking is usually meant for shorter trips whereas parking lots and the garage is designed for long term stays.
RELATED: Springfield looking to implement paid parking in downtown
Heck said they are looking at parking meters specifically and that there would be a limited amount of time when it would be free
Several Springfield residents shared their opinions on the Springfield News-Sun Facebook page.
"The greene is a good example. They do not charge because they want to bring people in," Paul Pillers said. "I will not frequent downtown if I have to pay to park. I will simply go somewhere else."
"I would warn against this," Tony Satariano said. "Meters would just be another reason for people to not come downtown
"I feel bad for the small business owners that have invested heavily in their businesses to have to face customers having to pay for parking," Alan Skinner said. "I'll just stick to shopping and dining where the parking is free."
Some residents believe adding paid parking is not a bad idea.
"If you're paying for those dinners, you're not pressed about parking expense," Susan Sweeney said. "Let's be realistic about what is there presently, anyone going to those places to eat has the money for parking."
City commissioners said at a public meeting last week that they are still discussing details of adding paid parking. This includes which spots would be metered, how long spaces would be available for free parking, what those meter rates would look like as well as how much it would cost to park in city lots.
WATCH: John Legend announces free shuttle service after Kroger closure in Springfield
With the public parking garage slated to open in soon, city officials hope to have a plan in place in the coming months.
About the Author