On Monday, October 6, 2014, the Public Works Department installed 40 “smart” parking meters on Park and Webster Streets. These new meters have large digital displays and accept credit cards in addition to coins. If the pilot is successful, then the City will consider replacing all 822 current meters with “smart” meters.
The three-month pilot has broad support from both the Park Street Business Association (PSBA) and West Alameda Business Association (WABA). "PSBA thanks the City for moving forward with the smart meters,” said PSBA Executive Director Robb Ratto. “We believe the pilot program will be an incredible success, leading to the installation of smart meters throughout the Downtown District."
The “smart” meters were installed at two locations:
- Webster Street between Haight Avenue and Santa Clara Avenue; and
- Park Street between Santa Clara Avenue and Central Avenue.
Public Works staff and the contractor simply replaced the current meter top with a new mechanism at each space, utilizing the same meter pole and housing. No parking spaces were closed during installation and there was no change to the current parking rates.
The pilot was approved by City Council after gaining input from more than 800 residents, shoppers, business owners, and employees. These meters are less expensive than multi-space kiosks, easier to maintain, and offer shoppers the convenience of being able to use a credit card or coins.
Public Works encourages those who use the “smart” meters to go to http://alamedaca.gov/public-works/smart-parking-meter-pilot and complete a survey regarding their experience.
The pilot is part of the City’s broader plan to free up two available parking spaces per block in these business districts. Freeing up parking spaces will convenience shoppers, increase the economic vitality of Park Street and Webster Street, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by cars circling for a parking space. For more, see this June 17, 2014 staff report.
If you have any questions, please contact Liam Garland, Administrative Services Manager, at (510) 747-7962 or lgarland@alamedaca.gov
