WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Parking regulations in Winston-Salem could be facing possible changes.
The Winston-Salem City Council has plans to discuss new guidelines for parking at their next meeting on Monday, Nov. 4.
According to city documents, the new guidelines would raise the on-street hourly parking rate to $1.50 per hour. The current parking rate structure has on-street parking meters at $0.25 per hour and on-street pay stations at $1.00 per hour.
Parking violation fines could also be increased from $15 to $30.
The city is proposing switching from using parking meters to using a new mobile app in an effort to modernize and streamline payment options. The PayByPhone app would feature an interactive map where users would be able to stay informed on hours, restrictions, and accepted payment methods regarding parking.
Several other cities in North Carolina, including Charlotte and Raleigh, have already implemented a mobile payment system for parking, according to city documents.
The city held two public meetings to gather feedback on the proposed plan.
Several public comments from residents in Winston-Salem and surrounding areas revealed negative sentiment around the new changes.
Residents expressed concerns about the increased cost of parking rates and accessibility of the new mobile parking app for individuals who may not be as comfortable with technology.
If the new parking measures are approved, they could be implemented starting next spring.
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