Charlotte Launches New Parking Program

Charlotte will roll out new parking rules in Dilworth and Wilmore this year. The plan combines two-hour paid parking with special permits for residents.

Residents can get up to six permits per household each year. The first permit costs $35, with additional ones costing more. Along Cleveland Avenue, parking meters will be active six days weekly, running from morning to evening.

The new system aims to fix a growing problem: South End visitors and construction workers taking up residential street parking. New signs will be installed throughout both neighborhoods to show the two-hour limits.

“I think that's a positive change,” said Kirsten Whitman, Sales Manager at Schumacher Showroom and Boutique to qcnewscom. “I think for us being a retail business, and part of our business relies on walk-in foot traffic. I think that's exciting. Turnover will be quicker for parking and hopefully generate some more foot traffic for us.”

The city developed this plan after months of community meetings, business owner input, and testing temporary restrictions. The parking situation needed immediate attention.

With South End's growth, parking has overflowed into nearby areas. By limiting long-term parking the city hopes to free up more spots for customers who are only briefly parking while shopping.

The city will monitor these changes, hoping to see that they could work in other areas. Residents are invited to provide feedback about the program's effectiveness.

Revenue from permits and meters will help fund street improvements. The aim is to keep businesses thriving while protecting resident parking.

Everyone can share feedback during this pilot program. The city is ready to adjust the rules based on community input.