KALAMAZOO, MI — The city of Kalamazoo rolled out a revamped downtown parking system Tuesday that adds paid parking to some high-demand blocks while expanding free parking in other areas.
The changes, which took effect April 1, 2026, involve two pricing zones for on-street parking based on demand. Downtown’s core area will charge $2 per hour, while surrounding streets with moderate demand will charge $1.50 per hour. The new base rate represents a reduction from the previous system-wide rate of $1.75 per hour.
The updates shift 12 blocks to paid parking where curbside demand is highest, while 11 blocks transition to free parking. Free 90-minute parking in the Epic Center and Kalamazoo Mall ramps, introduced in 2023, remains available for visitors…