Dahl letter: Downtown parking
The law against “feeding the meters” already motivates me to avoid downtown. It appears raising rates on parking meters is the first option to refill the city coffers, which feels like another attempt to fleece the people. Researchers have concluded that in other cities with high-priced parking meters, “The downside is that small businesses that used to depend on reasonable parking meter rates are being squeezed as customers stay away.”
Our downtown can be attractive with its small-town feel, great restaurants and stores, and nightlife; however, the use of the garages is often inconvenient and paying more money for parking is not worth it when indoor shopping and great restaurants are available elsewhere.
For our downtown to thrive, the city of Boise cannot overcharge citizens or have unreasonable laws requiring a driver to move the car instead of adding money to a meter (but an app can be used). Nearly 90 percent of our economy consists of small businesses, and we depend on their success. Increasing meter rates will deter commerce as does other objectionable revenue generators. It would be great if the downtown area prospered like other great American cities, but it must be affordable for all.
Nancy Dahl, Boise
This story was originally published February 11, 2016 at 6:46 PM with the headline "Dahl letter: Downtown parking."