A compromise is reached on parking meters

Hamtramck’s new parking meter system certainly has its critics.
The new meters, some say, are too confusing, and there needs to be more grace time before you have to pay.
Plus, after years of not enforcing the old meters that were replaced, folks got used to not paying to park. It came as no surprise that there have been loud objections about bringing back meters after motorists had enjoyed free parking for a number of years.
Unfortunately, the city has to find ways to make money to stave off a massive budget deficit. The city also wanted to make sure that cars weren’t being parked in the same spot in the business district all day long.
The meter issue did not go unnoticed by the new city council and mayor.
A council sub-committee has come up with some changes that, we believe, make the meters fairer and less financially stressing for folks.
The updates include:
The hours of enforcement were reduced, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. down to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Two additional holidays were added where parking is free. Both holidays are to celebrate the two Eids that happen in each year.
Monthly parking passes, which allow drivers to park anywhere, were lowered to $25 per month.
There is now a 30-minute grace period at city lots that will allow shoppers to get their groceries or merchant items without having to pay.
While we have reservations about parking meters, these adjustments are a good compromise. At least, we are hoping.
Posted April 29, 2022

Updated on 5/6/22 for clarity