Portland, Maine, to Expand Parking Meters and Eliminate Free Sundays

The City of Portland, Maine, appears to be headed for a decision that feels like the latest disconnect between city leaders and the everyday people that live and work in the city.

According to the Portland Press Herald, a budget proposal that would add parking meter hours and eliminate free parking on Sundays seems to have enough city council support to pass.

City leaders continue to push for a vision that sees Portland as less vehicle dependent. That's a wonderful idea in theory but currently most people who work in the city commute in. Adding more parking stress on to those individuals and businesses seems detached from reality.

Portland, Maine, Will Eliminate Free Sunday Parking and Extend Meter Hours

According to WMTW, in hopes of balancing the city budget, Portland, Maine, is proposing a series of changes to parking fees.

One of those keys changes would be to eliminate free parking on Sundays, something that has been treasured by those who work, live, or operate businesses in the city. The new Sunday enforcement would take place from 10am until 4pm for all meters and specialized zones citywide.

Meanwhile, Portland will also add a meter hour Monday through Sunday. 6pm has been the typical cutoff time in the city for years and it will not extend to 7pm. That will press visitors to shops and restaurants throughout the city to cough up a little bit more cash.

Portland, Maine, Just Keeps Making it More Expensive to Park in the City

Portland, Maine, has spent the better part of the last decade raising parking fees on both meters and inside city-owned parking garages. Portland has raised meter rates 4 times in the last decade.

While those fees still remain less expensive than most privately-owned lots, it's put a strain on those who commute to work in Portland or those looking to make a quick trip to the city without a huge expense.

One of the last remaining 'gifts' Portland, Maine, had given to residents and visitors was free parking on Sundays. And it looks like that's about to be taken away.

The City of Portland will welcome public comment on the proposed parking changes on May 18.