Midwest and Western cities adjust downtown parking policies | JQJO

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.