Paying to park at Balboa Park is on the verge of becoming a reality.
Why it matters: It’s a major change for the 14 million local residents and tourists that visit the city’s crown jewel each year. The city is relying on parking revenue to help close its budget deficit and pay for park improvements.
Driving the news: City Council is set to vote on the Park and Recreation Department’s proposed plan on Monday afternoon.
- If approved, the new parking rates will go into effect Oct. 6.
- The latest proposal rejects some requests by a few council members at the July meeting, including lowering rates, shortening enforcement hours and extending free parking in certain areas.
How it works: The proposal includes three pricing tiers for lots based on demand and proximity to prime destinations in the park, with enforcement from 8am-8pm daily.
- Most lots (Level 1) would have a $12 all-day rate.
- Level 2 and 3 lots would be $6 or half the cost of Level 1.
- The first two hours would be free at the Lower Inspiration Point lot (Level 3).
- The city plans to install meters on park roads and charge $2.50 per hour with a four-hour time limit. Council already approved metered parking on 6th Avenue and Park Boulevard.
Zoom in: Park employees, contractors and registered volunteers actively serving in the park would be able to park for free in Level 2 and 3 lots and along Balboa Drive.
- City residents would get a 50% discount for Level 1 lots, and must be verified through a portal that will be in place in January.
Between the lines: The Zoo’s recently amended lease allows it to charge for parking, with lower rates for city residents. Those rates haven’t been set yet, but will start in October…