The Brief
- Higher parking rates on St. Pete Beach are driving away customers and hurting sales, according to local business owners.
- One shop owner launched an online petition urging city leaders to reconsider the increased public parking fees.
- City officials say the parking program balances accessibility, turnover and limited parking availability for residents and visitors.
ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. – Higher parking rates at St. Pete Beach are drawing criticism from local business owners who say the increased costs are keeping visitors away. One owner has launched an online petition urging city leaders to revisit the parking policy before more businesses are affected.
St. Pete Beach parking costs
What we know:
Jessica O’Connell, co-owner of Cool Vibes on the Beach near Upham Beach, said business has slowed since new parking rates took effect in April. Public parking base costs rose to $5 per hour on weekdays and $6 per hour on weekends, with an added $1 seasonal surcharge from February through April.
O’Connell said her business relies on paid public parking in front of the shop, while city-designated parking spaces cost $60 per day per space. She plans to leave St. Pete Beach when her lease expires in about a year and a half if policies do not change.
Local business owner reactions
What they’re saying:…