Community Update

Parking Costs to Increase at Downtown Garage

By Patch Staff

Citing concerns about a parking crunch when the new courthouse opens downtown, the City Council voted Tuesday night to raise prices for parking in the Sophia Street Parking Garage to discourage commuters from parking there all day.

A June 3 memo from City Manager Beverly Cameron noted: “The primary purpose of raising garage rates is to free-up parking spaces for people who shop, work, and do business downtown, including those who will use the new courthouse. We believe the proposed rates will be set at a level to encourage a portion of the commuting population to seek alternative parking.”

Free three-hour parking will remain, but under rules starting Aug. 1, the early-bird rate is eliminated, bringing parking to $8 per day for all daily commuters. Monthly permits will also cost $100 for non-residents; residents get a $25 per month discount and will pay $75 per month, Fredericksburg.com reported.

The garage opened in November 2005 and rates for parking last increased in December 2011, according to city documents.

Once the full rates are in effect, the city could see $35,000 to $40,000 in additional revenue per year, according to the June 3 memo. Actual revenue may vary depending on how many commuters choose to park elsewhere due to the increased costs. The revenue will support operations and debt service of the garage on Sophia Street.