San Diego officials are rolling out how paid parking in Balboa Park is going to work.
The big picture: The city helped close a budget deficit last month by deciding to charge for parking in its crown jewel after years of similar proposals failed amid public backlash.
- But the city had not yet outlined a detailed proposal for its plans.
Driving the news: The mayor’s office last week presented its initial proposal for a parkwide paid-parking system to the Balboa Park Committee.
- The mayor’s office is aiming for the City Council to approve the proposal by July 28 so the city can begin charging in October.
How it works: Parking lots inside the park are split into three price tiers based on proximity to the central mesa, with a minimum of $5 per day and a maximum of $15 per day.
- The city wants to install parking meters and charge $2.50 per hour for street parking within the park, and on Sixth Avenue along its western edge.
- Residents could get half off the highest tiered rate by registering for an account that would grant a permit.
- Parking in the Inspiration Point lot would be free for the first two hours.
Context: The mayor’s office stressed the proposal can undergo changes ahead of council approval…