Parking Matters for Raleigh’s Local Businesses
Recently, staff from the City of Raleigh introduced a proposal that would make significant changes to parking across downtown, with the possibility of these updates taking effect as early as next year.
We are closely following this proposal and are concerned about the potential impact these changes could have on locally owned businesses and the accessibility of downtown for visitors, employees, and residents.
The proposal includes several adjustments such as increasing on-street and deck parking rates, removing free parking in decks during evenings and Saturdays, reducing the two-hour free parking program to one hour, adding a new monthly fee to the Small Business Employee parking program, and raising monthly parking costs for businesses, employees, and residents.
Introducing changes of this magnitude all at once could significantly raise the cost of visiting, shopping, dining, and working in downtown Raleigh.
We recognize that the city’s parking system requires funding for maintenance, safety, and operations. However, we believe there may be more gradual, thoughtful approaches that could address these needs while minimizing negative impacts on small businesses and the customers who support them.
It’s important that decisions of this scale involve meaningful input from the small business community and the many people who come downtown to shop, dine, and explore. We encourage Raleigh City Council and city staff to provide additional opportunities for community feedback before moving forward.
If you would like to share your perspective with City Council, you can:
• Contact your City Council member directly
• Email the full council at citycouncilmembers@raleighnc.gov
As always, we encourage everyone to share their feedback respectfully while advocating for policies that support Raleigh’s local business community.
