Midwest and Western cities adjust downtown parking policies
PUBLISHED Apr 15, 2026, 1:26 AM ET
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Ogden, Utah — City officials presented a modified paid parking proposal at a Tuesday work session, saying managed parking is needed to increase turnover and help recoup costs as new development arrives. The plan, first announced in 2024 and paused by Mayor Ben Nadolski after business and resident complaints, would place paid street spaces on 25th Street and Kiesel Avenue, and add paid stalls in the WonderBlock garage and two lots behind 25th Street businesses. Paid on-street parking would cost $1.50 to $2, off-street $1 to $1.50, and be enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; paid spots would have no time limit while remaining free spaces would be limited to two hours. The city said the first 15 minutes in paid spots will be free and employees could buy a $10-per-month off-street permit. Officials said the proposal reflects public input and stakeholder discussions, but council members continue to work through details and said pilot programs could begin this summer. Mara Brown, the city’s chief administrative officer, framed the effort as responding to increased demand and the need for turnover. Some local business owners and residents expressed concern: Keanna Walker of Alchemy Tattoo Studio said paid parking could hurt accessibility and discourage customers, and resident Hannah Wagner said fees and limited ADA parking make the area feel less local. Council members are still reviewing questions about implementation.
By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- 2024: Ogden announces a paid parking plan, then pauses it after complaints.
- September 2025: San Diego implements event-area parking pricing near Petco Park.
- March 24, 2026: Noblesville council first hears parking policy proposal.
- Early April 2026: East Lansing developer requests delay; vote rescheduled to April 21, 2026.
- April 23, 2026: Noblesville parking policy changes take effect.
News Intelligence
- Parking policies affect your wallet and your time. If you live, work, or shop in Ogden, you might pay more for parking soon. But you could also find spots easier. Check the city's website for updates on the proposal.
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City governments and developers stand to benefit through potential new revenue streams, approved projects, and improved turnover for downtown businesses, while some drivers may find expanded free parking windows in specific towns.
Some residents and business owners who oppose paid parking or increased building height have experienced concern about costs, parking availability, and neighborhood impacts; San Diego drivers faced higher fees and avoided parking near event venues.
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Midwest and Western cities adjust downtown parking policies
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