FINALLY: Cleveland Plans to Modernize its On-Street Parking Next Summer

In a move that catches us up with most other major cities, Cleveland plans to modernize its street parking system next summer, according to a request for proposals (RFP) issued by Mayor Justin M. Bibb on Thursday.

Coin-operated meters will be phased out starting in June, with new smart parking meters taking their place, according to a City of Cleveland release. Mobile payment options will also be available in the new system.

“Modernizing our city’s on-street parking system will make the public’s experience much more customer friendly and convenient,” Bibb says in a statement. “This is a big upgrade that makes payments easy, allows us to see parking trends, analyze data and improve efficiency.” 

Currently, the city has about 2,500 single-space parking meters and 26 solar-powered smart meter kiosks, according to the release. The city's new system will have parking meters that accept credit cards, meaning drivers won't need to carry change with them to park.

“This project will involve taking a look at parking across the city to assess demand, evaluate lots, establish defined parking zones, and look at rates and revenue,” says Cleveland’s Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Teeuwen in the release. “Introducing additional payment options also eliminates the hassle of making sure you have quarters to park.” 

Proposals will be accepted through Nov. 3. Read the full release here.