Columbia’s Parking Rates Set to Skyrocket: What Residents and Business Owners Need to Know

Columbia’s Parking Rates Set to Skyrocket: What You Need to Know

Columbia, SC—In a city council meeting that packed in concerned citizens and business owners alike, the question of parking rates took center stage on November 19th. Residents gathered to voice their worries regarding the proposed increases in parking rates and enforcement fees. As it stands, the city council has given the first green light to the proposal, and if everything goes according to plan, these changes could roll out starting January 1, 2025.

The Numbers Game

Columbia officials are looking at a steep increase in parking revenue, with projections estimating an eye-popping $17 million over the next five years if the new rates are implemented. Currently, without these changes, the city expects to bring in only about $261,000 in that same timeframe. It’s no wonder city manager Teresa Wilson commented on the fact that the city hasn’t touched its parking rates in almost two decades. “What do we know that hasn’t increased in 20 or 25 years?” Wilson asked. The community’s eyeballs widened as they absorbed just how long it’s been since Columbia’s parking rates have been adjusted.

What’s Changing?

The proposal, which received its initial approval, involves a comprehensive overhaul of both the parking rates and the enforcement policies. Similar-sized cities in the region show that Columbia has some of the lowest hourly incremental rates for on-street parking and parking decks, leading officials to argue that adjustments are long overdue.

Among the many adjustments, residents can expect to see a full list of special permit rate changes and updates to parking violation fees. Notably, the city operates 11 parking decks and 14 surface lots, with more than 5,000 on-street parking spaces to boot. That’s a lot of asphalt! However, it seems that more parking means more headaches for those trying to find a spot, especially in a busy downtown area.

Business Owners Speak Out

One thing that’s clear is that the proposed changes are stirring up strong reactions from local business owners. Mary Sparrow, who owns the Oyster Bar on Park Street, expressed her frustration regarding the burden the increased rates would place on her employees. “Our kids make their money shucking oysters and waiting on you,” she pointed out. “They cannot afford these heightened prices.”

Sparrow also mentioned that she frequently hears from customers who want to dine at her restaurant but are deterred by the lack of parking. “This is a huge amount of money the city stands to win. We need to do it the right way,” she stated passionately. Feedback on the issue is prominent, showing just how this will affect not just daily customers but jobs too.

What About Alternatives?

Concerns don’t end with higher rates. Local council members advised Sparrow and others to consider getting a monthly parking pass, which can run around $35. Council members, including Aditi Bussells, suggest that revenue from parking rate increases should go towards enhancing pedestrian-friendly initiatives. “We also need to continue to invest in pedestrian-friendly initiatives,” Bussells urged.

Moreover, the new parking kiosks have received mixed reviews for their lack of cash and coin acceptance. As a result, the city is working to include prepaid parking cards as a payment option—a move welcomed by many residents concerned about accessibility to parking fees.

What’s Next?

The proposal is set for its second reading on December 3, 2024, but as residents and business owners gather their thoughts and form opinions, the intensity surrounding this issue isn’t expected to fade anytime soon. Will Columbia thrive with a new parking system, or will it cause more trouble than it’s worth? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—change is in the air.